Electric toothbrush handpiece and electric toothbrush comprising the electric toothbrush handpiece and a brush attachment

ABSTRACT

An electric toothbrush handpiece having at least one interface for coupling to a brush attachment, at least one housing, at least one drive unit for driving the interface, which is received in the housing, and at least one energy store for supplying energy to the drive unit. The electric toothbrush handpiece includes at least one fix frame unit which is arranged in the housing and which is implemented as a single piece and which at least partially receives the drive unit and the energy store, wherein the frame unit forms multiple receptacle regions at least for the drive unit and the energy store, which receptacle regions are positioned in a defined manner relative to one another in particular both in an assembled state and in an unassembled state of the frame unit, wherein the frame unit extends axially over the entire drive unit and the entire energy store.

This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/755,640filed Apr. 13, 2020, which in turn is a U.S. national stage applicationof PCT/EP2018/077787 filed Oct. 11, 2018, which claims priority under 35U.S.C. 119 from European Patent Application No. 17195869.7 filed on Oct.11, 2017. The entire contents of the above applications are incorporatedherein by reference.

PRIOR ART

The invention relates to an electric toothbrush handpiece, and to anelectric toothbrush having the electric toothbrush handpiece and a brushattachment.

Brush attachments for a toothbrush handpiece, electric toothbrushhandpieces and electric toothbrushes have already been proposed, forexample in CN 201966781 U, DE 10 2012 006 723 A1, EP 0 893 106 A2, EP 2234 561 B1, U.S. Pat. No. 9,237,943 B2, US 2002/056402 A1 and WO95/33419 A1.

US 2011/0107536 A1 has already disclosed a brush attachment for atoothbrush handpiece, having a head portion which comprises a brushhead, having an attachment portion which comprises an interfacereceptacle, and having a neck portion arranged between the head portionand the attachment portion.

JP 2012-165954 A has already disclosed an electric toothbrush handpiecehaving at least one interface for coupling to a brush attachment, havingat least one housing, having at least one drive unit for driving theinterface, which is received in the housing, and having at least oneenergy store for supplying energy to the drive unit.

The problem addressed by the invention consists in particular inachieving advantageous characteristics with regard to a variable and/oreasily assemblable and/or advantageously compact design and/or anefficient transmission of movement from the drive to the brushattachment and/or inexpensive producibility and/or high cleaningperformance with low potential for injury. The problem is solvedaccording to the invention by means of the features of patent claim 1,while advantageous embodiments and refinements of the invention emergefrom the subclaims.

Advantages of the Invention

A brush attachment for a toothbrush handpiece, in particular for anelectric toothbrush handpiece, is disclosed, having a head portion whichcomprises a brush head, having an attachment portion which comprises aninterface receptacle, and having a neck portion arranged between thehead portion and the attachment portion, wherein

the interface receptacle is implemented by a universal interfacereceptacle for receiving at least two different interfaces of differenttoothbrush handpieces. The interface receptacle preferably fits ontointerfaces of different shape and/or dimensions. Preferably, theinterface receptacle can in particular be used together with differenttoothbrush handpieces. Furthermore, the brush attachment isadvantageously composed of exactly three portions, specifically the headportion, the neck portion and the attachment portion. The portionsadvantageously directly adjoin one another. It would however also beconceivable for the portions to partially overlap.

In this context, an “interface receptacle” is to be understood inparticular to mean a receptacle region of the brush attachment which isconfigured for captively receiving an interface, in particular a spindleof the interface, of the toothbrush handpiece. Preferably, the interfacereceptacle is configured in particular for receiving the interface innon-positively and/or positively locking fashion. In particular, theinterface receptacle forms a receptacle region into which the interfaceof the toothbrush handpiece can be pushed, wherein the interface engageswith detent and/or jamming action in the receptacle region in particularwhen a pushing-in force exceeds a defined value. The interfacereceptacle is preferably arranged on a side of the brush attachmentwhich is averted from the brush head. Furthermore, in this context, a“universal interface receptacle” is to be understood in particular tomean an interface receptacle which is suitable for receiving at leasttwo different interfaces. This is preferably to be understood inparticular to mean an interface receptacle which is suitable forcaptively receiving at least two, in particular defined, differentlyshaped and/or differently dimensioned interfaces. It is preferable hereif at least the spindles of the interfaces are of different shape and/ordifferent dimensions. This is particularly preferably to be understoodin particular to mean an interface which is suitable for captivelyreceiving at least two, in particular defined, differently shaped and/ordifferently dimensioned interfaces, wherein a holding force for securingthe interfaces is at least approximately identical. “Configured” is inparticular to mean specifically programmed, designed and/or equipped.The statement that an object is configured for a particular function isto be understood in particular to mean that the object fulfills and/orperforms said particular function in at least one state of use and/oroperation.

Owing to the embodiment of the brush attachment, the brush attachmentcan be utilized in particular for different toothbrush handpieces. It ispossible in particular to realize universal use of the brush attachment.In this way, it is possible in particular to provide a brush attachmentwhich can be used in an advantageously variable and versatile manner.

It is furthermore proposed that the brush attachment has a supportingbase body which at least partially adjoins the interface receptacle andwhich has at least one clamping unit which is configured for beingelastically deflected for the purposes of receiving an interface of atoothbrush handpiece. The supporting base body preferably delimits atleast a major part of the interface receptacle. In this way, it ispossible in particular to achieve that an interface of a toothbrushhandpiece is received in an advantageously positively and/ornon-positively locking manner. Preferably, it is thus possible inparticular to realize a variable adaptation of a shape of the interfacereceptacle to the interface. In this way, it is possible in particularto enable different interfaces to be received. In this context, a“supporting base body” is to be understood in particular to mean acomponent which forms a supporting structure of the brush attachment.Preferably, the supporting base body is composed of a dimensionallystable material, in particular of a hard component, and extends along amain extent direction of the brush attachment at least over a major partof the brush attachment. The supporting base body is preferably formedby a single-piece component which is configured for stabilizing andconnecting the portions of the brush attachment. Here, a “main extentdirection” of an object is to be understood in particular to mean adirection which runs parallel to a longest edge of a smallestgeometrical rectangular cuboid that just completely encloses the object.Furthermore, here, “as a single piece” is to be understood in particularto mean cohesively connected, for example by means of a welding processand/or adhesive bonding process etc., and particularly advantageously tomean integrally formed, such as by production from one casting and/or byproduction in a single-component or multi-component injection moldingprocess. Less preferred, but likewise possible in the context of thisinvention, is positively and/or non-positively locking assembly of twoor more components, in particular to form the clamping unit.Furthermore, “at least a major part” is to be understood in particularto mean at least 30%, preferably at least 50% and particularlypreferably at least 70% of a delimited outer surface of the interfacereceptacle. In this context, a “clamping unit” is to be understood inparticular to mean a unit with at least one clamping element which,during a fastening process, is elastically deflected in order tosubsequently establish a positively and/or non-positively lockingconnection to the interface by means of an internal clamping force.Here, in this context, a “clamping element” is to be understood inparticular to mean a resiliently elastic element for producing aclamping connection, which element is configured for being elasticallydeflected during an assembly process. Various embodiments of theclamping element which appear expedient to a person skilled in the artare conceivable, for example in the form of a clamping wall and/orclamping web.

The base body is preferably produced entirely from one material. Thebase body is preferably composed of a hard component. In the context ofthis disclosure, use may be made of virtually any hard components, whicha person skilled in the art will combine and/or select in a mannersuited to the purpose. As a hard component, use may be made for exampleof Styrene polymers such as styrene acrylonitrile (SAN), polystyrene(PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene methyl methacrylate(SMMA), styrene butadiene (SB) or the like. Furthermore, a hardcomponent may comprise polyolefins such as polypropylene (PP),polyethylene (PE) or the like, in particular also in the form ofhigh-density polyethylene (HDPE) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE).Furthermore, use may be made of polyesters such as for examplepolyethylene terephthalate (PET), in particular in the form ofacid-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETA), glycol-modifiedpolyethylene terephthalate (PETG), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT),acid-modified poly cyclohexylene dimethylene terephthalate (PCT-A),glycol-modified polycyclohexylene dimethylene terephthalate (PCT-G) orthe like. Also conceivable is use of cellulose derivatives such as forexample cellulose acetate (CA), cellulose acetobutyrate (CAB), cellulosepropionate (CP), cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP), cellulose butyrate(CB) or the like. Furthermore, a hard component may for example comprisepolyamides (PA) such as PA 6.6, PA 6.10, PA 6.12 or the like, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyoxymethylene (POM),polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (FUR), polyimide (PA) or thelike. In particular polyethylene (FE) and/or polyurethane (PU) may beused as _5 a hard component and/or as a soft component. In particular, ahard component has a modulus of elasticity of at least 1000 N/mm² andadvantageously of at least 1300 N/mm² and/or of at most 2400 N/mm² andadvantageously of at most 1800 N/mm². Preferably, the brush attachmenthas a single base body which may be formed from one of the statedmaterials or else from a mixture thereof. However, combinations ofdifferent hard components are also conceivable, wherein these may forexample be processed in a two-component and/or mufti-component injectionmolding process and/or adhesively bonded to one another and/or assembledtogether and/or welded to one another, in particular by ultrasoundwelding. Alternatively or in addition, multiple hard components may beused which do not form a material connection in a two-component and/ormulti-component injection molding process. In particular, it isconceivable that, in this case, positive locking is generated betweenhard components, for example in the form of at least one undercut and/orat least one aperture and/or at least one at least partialnon-detachable overmold or the like. It is conceivable here that, forexample, a second hard component, which is in particularinjection-molded onto a first hard component, shrinks and/or contractsafter an injection molding process and advantageously forms a shrinkageconnection. Suitable combinations may for example bepolypropylene-polyester, polypropylene-styrene acrylonitrile or othercombinations.

It is furthermore proposed that the clamping unit has at least one atleast partially freestanding clamping wall which directly adjoins theinterface receptacle. In this way, it is in particular possible toprovide an advantageous clamping unit. In this way, preferably anadvantageously large-area clamping surface can be provided inparticular. In this way, in particular, an advantageously large-areaforce distribution can be achieved. In this context, an “at leastpartially freestanding clamping wall” is to be understood in particularto mean a clamping wall which is at least partially freestanding inrelation to a remaining part of the base body. It is particularlypreferable if, in at least one cross-sectional plane, the clamping wall,over at least a major part of an outer surface, has no attachment to aremaining part of the base body. It is particularly preferable if theclamping wall, over at least a major part of its extent parallel to themain extent direction of the brush attachment, in each case in a planeperpendicular to the main extent direction, has no attachment to aremaining part of the base body over a major part of an outer surface.This is particularly preferably to be understood in particular to mean afreestanding wall which is connected only at the ends and at a bottomside to the remaining part of the base body.

It is furthermore proposed that the clamping unit has at least two atleast partially freestanding clamping walls which directly adjoin theinterface receptacle on opposite sides. The clamping walls preferably atleast partially form in each case one side wall of the interfacereceptacle. In this way, it is possible in particular for a clampingforce to be applied in an advantageously uniform manner. Furthermore, itis possible in particular to provide an advantageous clamping unit. Inthis way, preferably an advantageously large-area clamping surface canbe provided in particular. In this way, in particular, an advantageouslylarge-area force distribution can be achieved.

It is furthermore proposed that the clamping unit has at least one atleast partially freestanding clamping bridge which directly adjoins theinterface receptacle. In this way, it is possible in particular toprovide an advantageous clamping unit. In this way, preferably anadvantageously large-area clamping surface can be provided inparticular. In this way, in particular, an advantageously large-areaforce distribution can be achieved. In this context, an “at leastpartially freestanding clamping bridge” is to be understood inparticular to mean a clamping bridge which is at least partiallyfreestanding in relation to a remaining part of the base body. It ispreferable if, in at least one cross-sectional plane, the clampingbridge, over at least a major part of an outer surface, has noattachment to a remaining part of the base body. It is particularlypreferable if the clamping bridge, over at least a major part of itsextent parallel to the main extent direction of the brush attachment, ineach case in a plane perpendicular to the main extent direction, has noattachment to a remaining part of the base body over a major part of anouter surface. This is particularly preferably to be understood inparticular to mean a freestanding bridge which is connected only at theends, in particular on the side of the brush head and on the side of theopening of the interface receptacle, to the remaining part of the basebody.

It is furthermore proposed that the clamping unit has at least one atleast partially freestanding clamping bridge. It is furthermore proposedthat the clamping bridge is arranged so as to be offset by at leastapproximately 90° with respect to at least one clamping wall. It isfurthermore proposed that the clamping bridge is arranged between twoclamping walls. The clamping bridge preferably at least partially formsa side wall of the interface receptacle. In this way, it is possible inparticular for a clamping force to be applied in an advantageouslyuniform manner. Furthermore, it is possible in particular to provide anadvantageous clamping unit. In this way, preferably an advantageouslylarge-area clamping surface can be provided in particular. In this way,in particular, an advantageously large-area force distribution isachievable.

Preferably, the clamping unit furthermore has a clamping elevation whichprojects at least partially into the interface receptacle. The clampingelevation is formed in particular by an elevation on an inner wall,which delimits the interface receptacle, of the base body. For thepurposes of demoldability, the clamping elevation preferably extendsaxially as far as an end of the interface receptacle. The clampingelevation has in particular an axial length of 4 mm to 8 mm, preferablyof 5 mm to 7 mm. Furthermore, the clamping elevation has in particular awidth of 0.7 mm to 1.8 mm, preferably of 1 mm to 1.5 mm, and a height of0.04 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably of 0.06 mm to 0.3 mm. A pulling-off forceof the brush attachment can preferably be set through adaptation of aheight of the clamping elevation. The clamping elevation thereforeserves in particular for enabling the retention force to be set and forclamping a spindle of an interface of a toothbrush handpiece in theinterface receptacle.

It is furthermore proposed that the brush attachment has an overmoldwhich is composed of a different material than the base body and whichdirectly encloses at least a major part of the at least one clampingwall and/or the at least one clamping bridge in at least one plane. Thematerials preferably have different hardnesses and coefficients offriction. It is preferable if the overmold directly encloses at least amajor part of the at least one clamping wall and the one clamping bridgein at least one plane perpendicular to a main extent direction of thebrush attachment. The overmold encloses the clamping wall in particularto at least two sides and/or encloses the clamping bridge to threesides. Preferably, the clamping wall has at least three sides which arefree from a remaining part of the base body, wherein one side inparticular delimits the interface receptacle and two sides are directlyenclosed by the overmold. The clamping bridge has at least four sideswhich are free from a remaining part of the base body, wherein one sidein particular delimits the interface receptacle and three sides aredirectly enclosed by the overmold. It is particularly preferable if aside of the at least one clamping wall which is averted from theinterface receptacle is back-molded. An elasticity of the clamping wallcan be further improved in this way. The elasticity of the clampingbridge is improved by virtue of this being over-molded on the outerside. In particular, an elastic deflection of the clamping wall or ofthe clamping bridge can be at least partially clampened. In this way, areliability of the clamping unit can be further improved. Furthermore,here, “at least a major part” is to be understood in particular to meanat least 20%, preferably at least 40% and particularly preferably atleast 60% of an outer surface of the clamping wall. Instead of anovermold, the second material may less preferably also be installed andthus perform the same function.

The overmold or back-molding is preferably produced entirely from onematerial. The overmold is preferably composed of a soft component. Inthe context of this disclosure, use may be made of virtually any softcomponents, which a person skilled in the art will combine and/or selectin a manner suited to the purpose. As soft components, use may forexample be made of thermoplastic styrene elastomers (TPE-S) such as astyrene ethylene butylene styrene copolymer (SEES), a styrene butadienestyrene copolymer (SBS) or the like. Also conceivable is the use ofthermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPE-U), thermoplastic polyamideelastomers (TPE-A), thermoplastic polyolefin elastomers (TPE-O),thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPE-E), polyethylene (PE),polyurethane (PU) or the like. Furthermore, a soft component may forexample comprise at least one silicone. A soft component advantageouslyhas a Shore A hardness of at most 90, advantageously of at most 50 andparticularly advantageously of at most 30. Preferably, at least one softcomponent forms at least a material connection with at least one hardcomponent, in particular in at least a two-component and/ormulti-component injection molding process, advantageously by means of atleast an overmolding and/or injection-molding encapsulation process.

It is preferably possible for further function elements to be formed onthe brush attachment by means of the overmold. It would preferably beconceivable for a functional element formed by a tongue cleaner to beformed on a head rear side of the brush attachment by means of theovermold. The tongue cleaner may be provided with a surface structure.Further functional elements that appear expedient to a person skilled inthe art are furthermore conceivable. In particular, it would beconceivable for the functional element to be formed as one or moreresiliently elastic cleaning elements in the bristle array. Furtherfunction elements may be formed by means of the overmold. For example,the brush head may be at least partially overmolded in order to form animpact guard with respect to teeth and gums. Furthermore, holding zonesmay be formed on the brush attachment by means of the overmold, whichholding zones enable the brush attachment to be easily pushed on andpulled off. The holding zones may be provided with a surface structure.

It is furthermore proposed that the interface receptacle has at leastone first, at least substantially rectangular-cuboidal partialreceptacle region which is at least partially delimited to one side bythe at least one clamping wall and/or at least one clamping bridge.Preferably, the first partial receptacle region is delimited to twoopposite sides by in each case one clamping wall. Furthermore, the firstpartial receptacle region is delimited on one side, preferably betweenin each case one clamping wall, by a clamping bridge. The first partialreceptacle region preferably forms a final portion of the interfacereceptacle, which is configured for receiving a tip of the interface ofthe toothbrush handpiece. In this way, it is possible in particular toprovide an advantageous interface receptacle. It is possible inparticular to realize a reliable and secure receptacle of an interface.Furthermore, it can be achieved in particular that clamping on a spindleof the interface of the toothbrush handpiece is realized. In this way,an advantageously reliable transmission of a drive movement to the brushattachment can be achieved. In this context, an “at least substantiallyrectangular-cuboidal partial receptacle region” is to be understood inparticular to mean a partial receptacle region whose volume, inparticular whose value of the volume, deviates by at most 40%,preferably at most 20% and particularly preferably at most 10% from avolume, in particular a value of the volume, of a smallest imaginaryrectangular cuboid that just completely encloses the partial receptacleregion.

It is furthermore proposed that the interface receptacle has at leastone second, at least substantially cylindrical partial receptacle regionwhich projects axially at least partially into the first partialreceptacle region. In this way, it is possible in particular to realizeadvantageous shaping of the interface receptacle. The statement that“the second partial receptacle region projects axially at leastpartially into the first partial receptacle region” is to be understoodin particular to mean that the first partial receptacle region and thesecond partial receptacle region at least partially overlap at leastwith regard to an axial extent. Preferably, the partial receptacleregions are arranged at least approximately coaxially with respect toone another and form an overlap. Preferably, the interface receptaclecomprises at least a union of the first partial receptacle region andthe second partial receptacle region. In this context, an “at leastsubstantially cylindrical partial receptacle region” is to be understoodin particular to mean a partial receptacle region whose volume, inparticular whose value of the volume, deviates by at most 40%,preferably at most 20% and particularly preferably at most 10% from avolume, in particular a value of the volume, of a smallest imaginarycylinder that just completely encloses the partial receptacle region.

It is furthermore proposed that the second pressure receptacle region isarranged so as to axially fully overlap the first partial receptacleregion. Preferably, the second partial receptacle region is arrangedaxially entirely within the first partial receptacle region. Preferably,the second partial receptacle region is arranged in particular at an endof the first partial receptacle region which is averted from the end ofthe interface receptacle. It is particularly preferable if the secondpartial receptacle region, in particular on a side facing toward theopening of the interface receptacle, terminates together with the firstpartial receptacle region. It is preferable if a maximum cross sectionof the second partial receptacle region perpendicular to a main extentdirection of the brush attachment is larger than a corresponding maximumcross section of the first partial receptacle region. In this way, it ispossible in particular to realize advantageous shaping of the interfacereceptacle. The rectangular-cuboidal structure of the first partialreceptacle region advantageously at least partially continues in thesecond partial receptacle region and thus forms a continuous structure.

It is furthermore proposed that the interface receptacle has at leastone third, at least substantially frustoconical partial receptacleregion which axially directly adjoins the second partial receptacleregion. Preferably, the third partial receptacle region has no overlapwith the first and/or second partial receptacle region. Preferably, thethird partial receptacle region directly adjoins the first partialreceptacle region and the second partial receptacle region. The thirdpartial receptacle region adjoins the first partial receptacle regionand the second partial receptacle region in particular on a side facingtoward the opening of the interface receptacle. Preferably, theinterface receptacle forms at least a union of the first partialreceptacle region, the second partial receptacle region and the thirdpartial receptacle region. It is preferable if a maximum cross sectionof the third partial receptacle region perpendicular to a main extentdirection of the brush attachment is larger than a corresponding maximumcross section of the second partial receptacle region. In this way, itis possible in particular to realize advantageous shaping of theinterface receptacle. In this context, an “at least substantiallyfrustoconical partial receptacle region” is to be understood inparticular to mean a partial receptacle region whose volume, inparticular whose value of the volume, deviates by at most 40%,preferably at most 20% and particularly preferably at most 10% from avolume, in particular a value of the volume, of a smallest imaginaryfrustum that just completely encloses the partial receptacle region.

It is furthermore proposed that the first, substantiallyrectangular-cuboidal partial receptacle region has at least onenarrowing at which the partial receptacle region narrows from at leastone side. The partial receptacle region preferably narrows radially fromat least two sides at the narrowing. The first partial receptacle regionpreferably has, at at least two sides, an in particular bevelledshoulder which forms the narrowing. The narrowing is preferably arrangedaxially adjacent, in an insertion direction of the interface, to the atleast one clamping wall of the clamping unit. In this way, it ispossible in particular to realize advantageous shaping of the interfacereceptacle. It is possible in particular to realize an advantageouslyeasy insertion of the interface into the interface receptacle. Thenarrowing may be formed, on one side, on the clamping bridge.

Preferably, the interface receptacle furthermore has a fourth,frustoconical partial receptacle region, the lateral surface of which iscoaxially curved. It is preferable if the fourth partial receptacleregion, in particular on a side averted from the first partialreceptacle region, axially directly adjoins the third partial receptacleregion. The fourth partial receptacle region is preferably arranged atleast approximately coaxially with respect to the third partialreceptacle region. It is particularly preferable if the fourth partialreceptacle region, on a side facing toward the opening of the interfacereceptacle, adjoins the third partial receptacle region. The fourthpartial receptacle region forms in particular the opening of theinterface receptacle. Preferably, the interface receptacle comprises aunion of the first partial receptacle region, the second partialreceptacle region, the third partial receptacle region and the fourthpartial receptacle region.

The brush attachment preferably has a drip edge in the attachmentportion. The drip edge is formed in particular by a hard transition froma bevel of the brush attachment to a rounded profile of the outer skinof the brush attachment. The drip edge particularly preferably forms aradially outermost edge of the brush attachment. The drip edgepreferably has a diameter of 12 mm to 20 mm, preferably of 14 mm to 18mm. The drip edge is particularly preferably formed by a circular edge.In principle, however, a different shaping of the edge that appears tobe expedient to a person skilled in the art would also be conceivable.In the case of wide hand parts, the drip edge and the bevel inparticular form a termination, whereas, in the case of slim hand parts,the drip edge and the bevel preferably form a transition. Furthermore,by means of the drip edge, it is possible in particular to realize thefunction whereby, when the brush attachment is standing on a standingsurface, liquid advantageously drips off the drip edge. Furthermore, bymeans of the drip edge, less liquid runs in the direction of thestanding surface, and thus, in the installed state, it is also the casethat less liquid flows in the direction of the interface. The drip edgemay be composed of hard and/or soft components.

The invention furthermore proceeds from a brush attachment for atoothbrush handpiece, in particular for an electric toothbrushhandpiece, having a head portion which comprises a brush head, having anattachment portion which comprises an interface receptacle, and having aneck portion arranged between the head portion and the attachmentportion. It is proposed that the brush head has a bristle array with atleast two significantly differing bristle bundles. The brush headpreferably has a multiplicity of significantly differing bristlebundles. In this context, “substantially differing bristle bundles” isto be understood in particular to mean that the at least two bristlebundles differ significantly from one another at least in terms of theirshape and/or their orientation. The bristle bundles preferably have asignificantly differing shape and/or a significantly differingorientation. In this context, a “significantly differing shape” of thebristle bundles is to be understood in particular to mean that a basearea of a first bristle bundle, in particular with any orientation,differs by at least 10%, preferably at least 30% and particularlypreferably at least 50%, from a base area of the second bristle bundle.It is preferably the case that at most 80%, preferably at most 60% andparticularly preferably at most 40% of an area of the base area of thefirst bristle bundle and/or of the second bristle bundle forms anoverlap when superposed. In this context, a “significantly differingorientation” is to be understood in particular to mean that anorientation of the bristles of a first bristle bundle deviates by atleast 10°, preferably at least 20° and particularly preferably at least30° from an orientation of the bristles of a second bristle bundle. Inthis way, it is possible in particular to realize advantageous cleaningperformance. The bristle bundles are preferably produced in a hottufting or HT process. Other production methods that appear expedient toa person skilled in the art for producing the bristle bundles arehowever also conceivable. Specifically for the hot tufting or HTprocess, the bristle holes in the brush head basically have closedcontours as seen in plan view, wherein all possible geometrical shapesmay be used. The bristle bundles or their base areas may be of circular,circular-ring-shaped, circular-segment-shaped, star-shaped, triangular,polygonal, rectangular or square etc. form. It is furthermore possiblefor different bristles to be used in different bristle bundles withinone bristle array, or else even within one bristle bundle. The bristlebundles are preferably furthermore of mirror-symmetrical form withrespect to a longitudinal axis and/or with respect to the transverseaxis of the brush head and/or of point-symmetrical form, preferably withrespect to a geometrical central point of the brush head. A topography,that is to say in particular the surface of usage-side bristle ends orcleaning elements, is, within a bristle array, preferably of flat,dome-shaped, trough-shaped, cup-shaped, crenellated, conical and/orrow-shaped implementation and/or implemented in the form of logos orletters which are elevated and/or recessed. In the case of a hot tuftingor HT process, it is firstly the case that the base body of the brushattachment is injection-molded or molded with blind holes or cutouts inthe head region. Subsequently, bristles are provided in bundles and aremelted in bundles on the side averted from the usage side. Subsequently,the base body is, in the head portion, warmed approximately to a glasstransition temperature. Finally, the molten bristle ends are insertedinto the blind holes or cutouts and the bristle bundles are anchored inthe bristle head under pressure and with corresponding slightdeformation of the base body. Here, the size of the blind holes isreduced, or the geometry is deformed, and the bristle bundles are thusanchored.

Various alternative embodiments and arrangements of bristle bundles ofthe bristle array are conceivable for the brush head. Here, the brushhead may have a bristle array with a multiplicity of, but at least two,significantly differing bristle bundles. Here, the bristle bundlesdiffer in each case with regard to a shape and/or an orientation. Inparticular, the bristle bundles may have at least different inclinedpositions. The bristle bundles may each be formed by ridges. The bristlebundles may each be formed by ridges which, in a longitudinal profile,are curved and/or have different lengths. Here, a bend may have variousorientations, wherein the bend may face toward or be averted from acentral point of the bristle array. The bend may furthermore also extendin a circumferential direction around the bristle array. It isfurthermore conceivable for the main extent to have ridges parallel tothe longitudinal axis of the toothbrush, wherein the bend of theindividual ridges is realized symmetrically with respect to thelongitudinal axis of the toothbrush. Alternatively or in addition, thebristle bundles may at least partially have a ring shape. Furthermore,the bristle bundles may be formed by conventional circular bundles. Itis furthermore conceivable for ridge-like bristle bundles to be curvedaround other bristle bundles. Alternatively or in addition, the bristlebundles may at least partially have an arrow shape, with a tip beingdirected in a defined direction. In this way, an advantageous cleaningaction can be achieved, in particular in the case of use on a sonictoothbrush or a toothbrush with a reciprocating pivoting movement.Alternatively or in addition, the bristle bundles may vary in terms oftheir size, in particular in terms of their periphery. It is furthermorealso conceivable for the bristle bundles to have an open-die formimplementation. It is preferably possible here for individual bristlebundles and/or a defined number of multiple bristle bundles to form aspecific shape. In particular, multiple bristle bundles together may ineach case form the shape of a turbine wheel, wherein the bristle bundlesare in each case formed by turbine blades. Alternatively or in addition,the bristle bundles may be formed at least partially by ridges which areof undulating form in a longitudinal profile and/or an end profile. Thenumber of undulation peaks and troughs is in particular variable. It ispossible for different undulations to be provided in the same bristlearray. It is furthermore conceivable for the ridges to have differentinclined positions, wherein the angles of the inclined positions in thebristle bundles relative to a normal of the brush head increase forexample toward the front and rear end of the bristle array, and thebristle bundles of the central ridges stand more vertically.Alternatively or in addition, the bristle bundles may be formed at leastpartially by transversely arranged ridges with an inclined position,which ridges, considered together, form an X shape when the bristlearray is viewed in a longitudinal direction. Here, the bristle bundlesmay in each case have partially different inclined positions.Alternatively or in addition, the bristle bundles may at least partiallyhave an elliptical shape. Here, it is possible in particular formultiple additional bristle bundles to be arranged around the ellipticalbristle bundle, which additional bristle bundles have different, in somecases also converging, inclined positions. It is alternatively possiblefor multiple additional bristle bundles to be arranged around theelliptical bristle bundle, which additional bristle bundles have anopen-die form implementation and each form, for example, the shape of aturbine blade. Here, the bristle bundles may in particular be combinedand/or arranged in any manner whatsoever.

At least some or all of the bristles are advantageously conventionallyextruded bristles. Here, bristles may in particular comprise at leastone hard component and/or at least one soft component. Preferably, thebristles are manufactured at least partially or entirely from polyamide(PA) and/or polyester (PBT), wherein any other materials areconceivable. It is furthermore conceivable for at least some of thebristles to have a pointed configuration and/or a variable crosssection. The bristles are preferably formed from a single, in particularalso mixed, material. Also conceivable, however, are bristles composedof multiple components, in particular material components, which may beproducible and/or produced in particular by means of at least onecoextrusion process. The bristles may for example be producible and/orproduced by means of extrusion, cutting to length and/or reworking.Here, the bristles may be extruded either from one material or frommultiple materials, in particular by co-extrusion. In multi-componentextrusion processes, it is possible to realize for example 2-componentbristles, Stain Devil bristles of Perlon® and/or a combination of PBTwith soft components, wherein the soft components form strips in alongitudinal direction of the bristles.

In particular, use may be made of cylindrical bristles, wherein anyother cross sections are conceivable, such as for example polygonal,triangular, rectangular, square, elliptical, star-shaped, trapezoidal,parallelogram-shaped, diamond-shaped or any other cross sections. Inparticular, different bristles may be used in one bristle bundle, orelse different bristle bundles, in particular in each case with oneparticular type of bristles. Here, bristles and/or bristle bundles maybe arranged in regular or else irregular fashion. In particular,bristles and/or bristle bundles arranged in groups and/or arrangedadjacently may differ, in particular in alternating fashion, with regardto at least one feature, such as for example a length, a diameter, amaterial, a color, a material hardness, a geometry, a pointedconfiguration and the like. Preferably, for oral hygiene applications,the bristles have a diameter, in particular perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis thereof, of at least 0.075 mm and/or of at most 0.25mm. The bristles advantageously have a cross-sectional area, inparticular perpendicular to their longitudinal axis, of at least 0.002mm² and/or of at most 0.2 mm². In the case of bristles used in thecosmetics sector, for example bristles of an additional applicationelement, use may also be made of thinner bristles and/or bristles with asmaller cross section. In the case of pointed bristles, polyester (PBT)is particularly suitable as a material, wherein a pointed configurationmay be generated mechanically and/or chemically. Other materials arehowever likewise conceivable. The bristles are preferably straight in alongitudinal direction, though corrugated and/or twisted and/or helicaland/or rotated bristles are also conceivable, and in particularcombinations of different bristles. Furthermore, bristles with a smoothsurface are conceivable, as are bristles with a textured surface.Furthermore, the bristle component may also have further material addedto it, such as for example abrasive materials, materials which dissolveupon contact with water, and/or materials that release activesubstances.

Furthermore, the bristles, in particular as bristle bundles, areprocessed, in particular fastened to the bristle carrier, preferably bymeans of at least one anchor punching process, an anchor-free tufting(AFT) process, an in-mold tufting (IMT) process or the like. Preferably,the bristle carrier has a multiplicity of bristle receptacles, inparticular holes for bristle bundles, which are in particular drilledand/or molded during an injection molding process. In the case of anchorpunching, it is for example conceivable for a base body, composed inparticular of a hard component, preferably the use element and/or thebrush head, to firstly be manufactured by means of an injection moldingprocess, wherein blind holes for bristle bundles are advantageouslymolded during the injection molding process. Subsequent drilling ofblind holes is however self-evidently also conceivable. Preferably,bristles or bristle bundles are subsequently folded and fastened bymeans of at least one anchor in in each case one blind hole, inparticular by being punched in.

Alternatively, as mentioned, anchorless methods are also conceivable,wherein bristles or bristle bundles are advantageously not folded.Bristles or bristle bundles in this case have a length which isapproximately halved in relation to an anchor punching process. Forexample, it is conceivable for bristle bundles to initially beseparated, for bristle bundles to be melted, and/or for bristle ends tobe overmolded in particular subsequently to the fastening thereof. Inthis way, it is advantageously possible for bristle bundles to becombined. Here, for example, production by means of in-mold tufting(IMT) is possible, wherein it is advantageously the case that a basebody, for example of the brush head and/or of the handle unit and/or ofthe fastening unit, is molded during the overmolding of the bristleends. It is likewise conceivable that, in particular in the course of anintegrated anchorless production process, bristles are initiallyovermolded with plates or the like, and said plates are subsequently inturn overmolded, for example in order to form the brush head and/or thehandle unit.

It is furthermore conceivable to firstly manufacture bristle plates withpassage holes by means of injection molding, through which passage holesbristles are subsequently guided. The bristles are preferablysubsequently connected, in particular fused, on a rear side, preferablyto one another and/or to the corresponding bristle plate. In this way,bristle plates fitted with bristles can then be welded and/or adhesivelybonded to a base body, in particular a brush head, preferably by meansof an ultrasound welding process. One known production method that canbe mentioned in this context is Boucherie AFT (anchor free tufting),which makes it possible in particular for bristle bundles to becombined.

As a further method for anchorless bristle fitting, consideration may begiven to the manufacture, in particular injection molding, of a brushhead molded integrally on a handle or of a separate bristle plate withpassage holes for bristles. Bristles may subsequently be guided throughthe passage holes and fused on a rear side, in particular to one anotherand/or to the brush head. This is preferably followed by overmolding ofthe fused regions and/or of the brush head, in particular with at leastone material component, preferably a soft component. In the case of abristle plate, this is suitably connected to the brush handle, forexample by means of overmolding or welding. Here, use may be made forexample of a Boucherie AMR process, which in particular does not make itpossible for bristle bundles to be combined, or an AMR+ process, whichin particular makes it possible for bristles to be combined.

It is furthermore conceivable to firstly manufacture a brush head withblind holes, for example by means of injection molding and/or by meansof drilling of the blind holes. In this case, bristles are combined toform bundles and are melted, and/or connected in some other way, at oneend. The brush head is subsequently warmed, in particular to a glasstemperature of its material. Bristle bundles can then advantageously beinserted into the blind holes and anchored on the brush head by beingpressed on. In particular, the warmed blind holes deform in the process,such that the bristle bundles are anchored therein. For example, a knownPTt process from Boucherie (a hot tufting process) is expedient here.

As an alternative or in addition to bristles being punched and/oradhesively bonded on and/or welded on, it is also conceivable forbristles to be molded on and/or for bristles to be twisted in, inparticular for interdental brushes. The molded-on bristles may inparticular be manufactured together with the usage unit, the handle unitand/or the fastening unit during a multi-component injection moldingprocess, or may be retroactively molded onto a base body of the usageunit.

It is preferably the case that materials of injection-molded bristles donot form a material connection with other soft components and/or hardcomponents of the oral hygiene item during an injection molding process,in particular a two-component and/or multi-component injection moldingprocess. Preferably, injection-molded bristles are rather connected tosoft components and/or hard components by means of a positively lockingconnection, for example by means of at least one undercut and/or bymeans of an aperture and/or by means of at least one at least partialovermold, wherein, in particular, a shrinkage connection and/or acontraction connection is conceivable. A connection by means of at leastone material connection is however also conceivable.

For all of the possible injection molding processes mentioned, asingle-component, two-component and/or multi-component injection moldingprocess is basically conceivable. Materials used, in particulardifferent soft components and/or hard components, may in this case beconnected in cohesive and/or positively locking fashion, as mentioned.It is also conceivable for articulated connections to be formed by meansof suitable injection molding steps. Use may basically be made, forexample, of hot runner processes, cold runner processes and/orco-injection processes.

Alternatively or in addition to a cleaning element in the form of abrush head, the brush attachment may also have at least one tonguecleaner and/or at least one cleaning and/or massaging element. These mayin each case be formed from a soft component, from a hard component orfrom a combination of soft and hard components, and/or advantageouslyproducible and/or produced by means of injection molding. Furthermore,various embodiments are conceivable for the bristles of the brush head.The bristles may preferably be formed by injection-molded bristleswhich, by contrast to conventional extruded bristles, are produced byinjection molding. Various materials which appear expedient to a personskilled in the art for injection-molded bristles are conceivable.Preferably, injection-molded bristles are formed at least partially andadvantageously entirely from a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer(TPE-U). Here, the use of a modified polyurethane elastomer (TPE-U) isconceivable, which may in particular be modified with regard to improvedflow characteristics and/or fast solidification, in particular fastcrystallization, advantageously even at relatively high temperatures.Other materials are however self-evidently also conceivable, for examplethermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPE-E), thermoplastic polyimideelastomers (TPE-A) or the like. Materials for injection-molded bristlesadvantageously have a Shore D hardness of at least 0 and particularlyadvantageously of at least 30 and/or of at most 100 and advantageouslyof at most 80. In particular, a Shore hardness of a material ofinjection-molded bristles is advantageously higher than a Shore hardnessof other soft components that are used, for example for handle elements,massaging elements, further cleaning elements or the like. During theinjection molding process, in particular the two-component ormulti-component injection molding processes, materials forinjection-molded bristles generally do not form a material connectionwith the other soft and/or hard materials used. Consequently, forpossible connections to other hard or soft materials, a positivelylocking connection is provided, for example by means of an undercutand/or in the form of apertures and/or in the form of partial and/orcomplete overmolds. The material for injection-molded bristles, which isinjected second, shrinks as it cools onto the first injected hard orsoft material, and then in particular forms a shrinkage connection.

Injection-molded bristles are preferably composed of harder material, inparticular with a high Shore hardness, than other injection-moldedresiliently elastic cleaning elements, which are generallyinjection-molded from soft material.

Also basically conceivable is the use of water-soluble polymers, forexample for hard components, soft components, injection-molded bristlesor other elements of the oral hygiene item. Also, in addition to thatmentioned above, water-soluble polymers may also be incorporated asseparate elements in the brush head (installation, overmolding, etc.).The water-soluble polymers preferably serve as carriers for oral hygieneagents such as flavors, antibacterial substances, silicates (asdescribed for example in EP 1 639 913 A1).

Consideration may likewise be given to bioplastics, which may beobtained in particular from renewable raw materials. Here, as rawmaterials, use may be made in particular of corn, hemp, sugar, castoroil, palm oil, potatoes, wheat, sugar cane, rubber, wood, the castorplant/miracle tree and the like. Corresponding possible raw materialscould for example be cellulose, starch, lactic add (PLA), glucose,chitin, chitosan or the like, from which, in particular, correspondingbioplastics can be synthesized.

The use of water-soluble polymers in conjunction with brush attachmentson a toothbrush handpiece of the type described below can yieldadvantages specifically in the field of oral hygiene. The movement ofthe brush head has the effect that, upon contact with water, or also inthe case of a correspondingly supporting touching action, the materialis degraded. The movement of the brush attachment causes a movement ofthe water relative to the water-soluble polymer, and thus more intensewear and/or a more intense release. The released substances canself-evidently also be distributed more effectively, or else further, asa result of the movement.

The invention also proceeds from an electric toothbrush handpiece havingat least one interface for coupling to a brush attachment, having atleast one housing, having at least one drive unit for driving theinterface, which is received in the housing, and having at least oneenergy store for supplying energy to the drive unit. It is proposed thatthe electric toothbrush handpiece has at least one fix frame unit whichis arranged in the housing and which is in particular implemented as asingle piece and which at least partially receives the drive unit andthe energy store. Preferably, the frame unit extends axially over theentire drive unit and the entire energy store. The drive unit ispreferably formed in particular by a motor. Furthermore, the energystore is formed in particular by an accumulator. In principle, however,a different embodiment of the energy store that appears to be expedientto a person skilled in the art, for example as a battery, would also beconceivable. Preferably the frame unit is in particular configured bothfor receiving a single energy storage cell, such as in particular an AAenergy storage cell, and for receiving three energy storage cellssimultaneously, in particular three AAA energy storage cells.Preferably, for three energy storage cells, a frame is provided whichreceives the three energy storage cells and which fits into a receptacleregion of the frame unit for the single energy storage cell.

In this context, a “housing” is in particular to be understood as aprotective outer shell of the toothbrush handpiece. The housingpreferably encloses a substantial part of the toothbrush handpiece. Thehousing preferably furthermore has a grip region. The housing preferablyforms a handle of the toothbrush handpiece. The housing is preferablyformed from a plastics housing. In principle, however, some othermaterial that appears to be expedient to a person skilled in the artwould also be conceivable. Furthermore, the housing may be formed bothas a single piece and in particular in two-shell form. The housingpreferably has parts which are composed at least of a hard component andwhich have a structure-supporting function. The housing is particularlypreferably composed in particular of hard components and softcomponents, wherein, in particular, handle surfaces and switch surfacesare formed by means of the soft components. The soft componentspreferably form an overmold of the hard components. Furthermore, in thiscontext, a “fix frame unit” is to be understood in particular to mean aunit which forms a support structure and which is implemented as asingle piece and/or which is composed at least only of parts which arefixedly connected to one another. The fix frame unit in particulardiffers from multiple individual frames which are separate from oneanother. Preferably, the frame unit forms multiple receptacle regions,in particular at least for the drive unit and the energy store, whichreceptacle regions are positioned in a defined manner relative to oneanother in particular both in an assembled state and in an unassembledstate of the frame unit. The fix frame unit is in particular configuredto form a prefabricated module, which can be fitted/introduced as onepiece into the housing.

By means of the embodiment according to the invention of the electrictoothbrush handpiece, it is possible in particular to achieveadvantageous assembly of the toothbrush handpiece. Preferably, by meansof the frame unit, it is possible in particular to preassemble thecomponent into the frame unit. In this way, it is possible in particularfor the frame unit to be inserted in fully preassembled form into thehousing, whereby assembly errors can be avoided. An installation ofcabling of the electric toothbrush handpiece, in particular at least ofthe drive unit and of the energy store, can preferably be performed,preferably entirely, outside the housing.

It is furthermore proposed that the electric toothbrush handpiece has atleast one charging coil for charging the energy store, which at leastone charging coil is received in the fix frame unit. Alternatively, aseparate frame unit of the charging coil may be formed, which can beinstalled on the frame unit. Here, the installation may take the form ofa plugging-on process, screwing-on process, adhesive bonding processetc. The frame unit of the charging coil carries within it the chargingcoil and also a compensation element, which is pressed by the chargingcoil against the energy store. Thus, length tolerances are compensated,and shocks, for example if the toothbrush is dropped, are absorbed. Theframe unit preferably has a receptacle region for positionally fixedlyreceiving the charging coil, in particular at least relative to theenergy store and/or the drive unit. In this way, it is possible inparticular to realize an advantageously exact orientation of thecomponents of the toothbrush handpiece relative to one another.Furthermore, an advantageously simple assembly process can be realizedin this way. In particular, it can be achieved that the frame unit canbe inserted in fully preassembled form into the housing. In thiscontext, a “charging coil” is to be understood in particular to mean aninduction coil for wireless energy transmission. Preferably, in acharging state, a voltage is induced in the charging coil by means of achanging magnetic field, by means of which voltage the energy store canbe charged.

It is furthermore proposed that the electric toothbrush handpiece has acircuit board for control of the drive unit, which circuit board is atleast partially received in positively locking fashion by the frame unitand extends at least over a major part of an axial extent of the frameunit. Preferably, the circuit board extends over at least 50%,preferably over at least 70% and particularly preferably over at least90% of an axial extent of the frame unit. The frame unit preferably hasan axial extent of at least 130 mm, preferably of at least 140 mm andpreferably of at most 200 mm and particularly preferably of at most 170mm. Furthermore, the frame unit has in particular a width of at least 10mm, preferably of at least 13 mm and preferably of at most 30 mm,particularly preferably of at most 25 mm. Furthermore, the frame unitalso has in particular a height of at least 15 mm, preferably of atleast 18 mm and preferably of at most 35 mm, particularly preferably ofat most 28 mm. The circuit board is preferably held in positivelylocking fashion on the frame unit in particular by means of holdingclips of the frame unit. The circuit board is particularly preferablyformed by a printed circuit board. Some other embodiment of the circuitboard which appears expedient to a person skilled in the art wouldhowever also be conceivable. The circuit board preferably forms anopen-loop and/or closed-loop control unit and/or an operator controlunit of the toothbrush handpiece. The circuit board is in particularconfigured for connecting and controlling the electrical functionalelements of the toothbrush handpiece. In particular, a large-areacircuit board can be provided in this way. In particular, anadvantageous attachment to the circuit board can be made possible inthis way. It is preferably thus possible to achieve in particular acomplete integration of the electrically functional parts into the frameunit. An “open-loop and/or closed-loop control unit” is to be understoodin particular to mean a unit with at least one set of controlelectronics. A “set of control electronics” is to be understood inparticular to mean a unit with at least one electronic circuit, which ispreferably composed of voltage and comparison control components. Theset of control electronics may however basically also be of more complexconstruction, for example through the use of a processor unit and amemory unit and with an operating program stored in the memory unit.

To receive the circuit board in positively locking fashion, the frameunit preferably has at least two hook-shaped positive-locking elements,which are configured for partially engaging over the circuit board in aninstalled state. For an installation process, the circuit boardparticularly preferably has, on an outer edge, recesses whichcorresponds to the positive-locking elements and via which the circuitboard can, for installation thereof, be moved past the positive-lockingelements into an end position. During an installation process, thecircuit board is preferably mounted onto the frame unit in a manneroffset with respect to a final position, wherein the circuit board canbe guided past the positive-locking elements by means of the recesses.The circuit board is subsequently in particular pushed under thepositive-locking elements and thereby fixed. The positive-lockingelements preferably additionally serve as hold-down means, which holdthe circuit board in non-positively locking fashion.

It is furthermore proposed that the drive unit has at least one rotorwhich comprises at least one cage element, which at least one cageelement is implemented as a single piece and has at least one receptacleregion for receiving at least one magnet. The cage element preferablycomprises at least two receptacle regions, which are each configured forreceiving one magnet. The magnets are preferably each formed by apermanent magnet. Some other embodiment of the magnets that appearsexpedient to a person skilled in the art would however basically also beconceivable. Preferably the rotor is in particular configured forperforming an oscillating movement. The rotor is particularly preferablycoupled in particular to the interface, preferably to a spindle of theinterface, which is configured for transmitting a drive movement to abrush attachment. In this way, it is possible in particular to providean advantageous rotor. Preferably, in this way, it is possible inparticular for a rotor to be provided which is configured for directlyreceiving the at least one magnet. In this way, it is possible inparticular for a number of components to be advantageously kept low. Inthis context, a “cage element” is in particular to mean an element whichis configured for receiving the at least one magnet by engaging aroundthe latter. The cage element preferably forms in particular a receptacleregion which, in at least one plane, is completely enclosed by thematerial of the cage element.

It is furthermore proposed that the cage element has a base body, whichcomprises at least one receptacle region for the at least one magnet,and spindle projections, which are arranged on both sides of the basebody and which form a rotary spindle of the rotor. The base bodypreferably comprises at least two receptacle regions arranged adjacentto one another. The spindle projections preferably serve in particularfor mounting of the cage element in the frame unit. The base body of thecage element is preferably mounted rotatably on the frame unit by meansof the spindle projections. It is particularly preferable if at leastone of the spindle projections furthermore serves for a transmission ofa drive movement of the base body to the interface. One of the spindleprojections is preferably coupled directly to a spindle of theinterface. In this way, it is possible in particular to realizeadvantageous mounting of the cage element. Furthermore, it is inparticular possible for a number of components to be kept low. It isfurthermore possible to realize advantageously simple and fast assemblyof the toothbrush handpiece. In this context, a “spindle of theinterface” is to be understood in particular to mean a shaft whichprojects out of a housing of the toothbrush handpiece and which isconfigured for directly transmitting a drive movement of the drive unitof the toothbrush handpiece to the brush attachment. The spindle of theinterface is preferably formed in particular by a metal shaft. Someother embodiment of the spindle that appears expedient to a personskilled in the art would however basically also be conceivable. The cageelement is preferably formed from a hard component.

It is furthermore proposed that the rotor has at least one metalliccover which is configured for closing off the receptacle region of thecage element. The receptacle region of the cage element is preferablyopen to at least one side, preferably to at least two opposite sides.The rotor preferably has in particular two covers which are connected tothe base body of the cage element from opposite sides and cover the opensides of the receptacle regions. The covers are particularly preferablyscrewed or adhesively bonded to the cage element. Furthermore, thecovers may be fixed by means of geometric elements. For example, with aninsertion geometry at one end and with one or more hook-shapedpositive-locking elements at the other sides. The fixing by means of thehook-shaped positive-locking elements may also occur only at the endsituated opposite the insertion geometry, if the covers come to lie in adepression which prevents lateral displacement by means of its sidewalls. In this way, it is possible in particular to achieve that the atleast one magnet is received in an advantageously secure manner. It ispreferably possible in this way in particular to realize that the magnetis received in an advantageously positionally accurate manner, and torealize an improved distribution of the magnetic field. It isfurthermore possible to realize advantageously simple and easy assemblyof the toothbrush handpiece.

It is furthermore proposed that the drive unit has at least oneresetting spring which, by way of a first end, is coupled rotationallyconjointly to a first spindle projection of the rotor and, by way of asecond end, is fixed in a variable rotationally fixed manner by means ofa fixing element to the frame unit. The resetting spring preferablyengages with a first end into a groove of the first spindle projectionof the cage element, which groove runs radially through an axis ofrotation of the rotor. The resetting spring is preferably formed inparticular by a helical spring. Some other embodiment of the resettingspring that appears expedient to a person skilled in the art, forexample in the form of a spiral spring or leaf spring, would howeveralso be conceivable. It is thus possible in particular advantageously torealize an automatic resetting of the rotor. In particular, it can beachieved that the spindle of the interface always comes to a standstillin the same position. In this way, it is possible to realize easy,consistent installation of the brush attachment, whereby a high level ofconvenience can be achieved. Furthermore, a resetting position canadvantageously be optimally set. Production differences can thusadvantageously be compensated. Furthermore, a readjustment of theinitial position is possible. In this way, it is possible in particularto realize improved positioning of the rotor in a rest position.Furthermore, it is advantageously possible to provide a smooth-runningdrive unit. In this context, a “resetting spring” is to be understood inparticular to mean a spring element which is configured for moving therotor back into a defined initial position after a rotation. The springelement is preferably furthermore configured for damping the oscillatingmovement of the rotor. In particular, the resetting spring is configuredfor moving the spindle of the interface into an initial position afterthe drive unit has been switched off. Furthermore, in this context, a“fixing element” is to be understood in particular to mean an elementwhich is configured for fixing, in particular clamping, an end of theresetting spring relative to a fixed component, such as in particularthe frame unit.

Preferably, the fixing element is in particular configured for fixingthe second end of the resetting spring by pressing the end against theframe unit. The second end of the resetting spring can preferably befixed in different positions. Here, the statement that “the resettingspring is fixed in a variable rotationally fixed manner to the frameunit” is to be understood in particular to mean that the resettingspring is fixed in a variable rotationally fixed manner to the frameunit at least with regard to a rotational position. This is preferablyto be understood in particular to mean that the resetting spring isdesigned to be fixable, in particular by means of the fixing element, ina rotationally fixed manner to the frame unit in different rotationalpositions relative to the frame unit. In particular, by means of thefixing element, an overall rotational position of the resetting springrelative to the frame unit can be set. In particular, it is possible foran initial position of the rotor relative to the frame unit to beindirectly set. Furthermore, a “spring element” is to be understood inparticular to mean a macroscopic element which has at least an extentand/or a relative rotational position of the ends which, in a normaloperating state, is elastically variable by at least 10%, in particularby at least 20%, preferably by at least 30% and particularlyadvantageously by at least 50%, and which in particular generates anopposing force which is dependent on a variation of the extent and/or ofthe relative rotational position and which is preferably proportional tothe variation and which counteracts the variation. An “extent” of anelement is to be understood in particular to mean a maximum spacing oftwo points of a vertical projection of the element onto a plane. A“macroscopic element” is to be understood in particular to mean anelement with an extent of at least 1 mm, in particular of at least 5 mmand preferably of at least 10 mm.

Alternatively, it is furthermore proposed that the drive unit has aresetting unit which is of two-part construction and which is configuredfor resetting a rotor into an initial position. Preferably, theresetting unit is configured for subjecting the rotor to an opposingresetting force during a deflection out of the initial position. Theresetting unit is preferably configured for moving the rotor back into adefined initial position after a rotation. It is preferably proposedthat the resetting unit is coupled rotationally conjointly to a firstspindle projection of the rotor and is supported elastically on theframe unit. It is furthermore proposed that the resetting unit has ashaft wing which is installed directly, in particular axially, on afirst axial projection of the rotor. The resetting unit, in particularthe shaft wing of the resetting unit, is fitted with its opening inparticular on a first spindle projection of the rotor, and therebycoupled to the latter. The shaft wing preferably has two oppositelysituated wings which run perpendicular to an axis of rotation and whichare in particular each formed by a rectangular projection. The wings arein particular each equipped with a passage hole. The wings, which lieperpendicular to the spindle projection, are preferably fixed to theframe unit by means of a spring and damping element. It is preferablyproposed that the resetting unit has an elastic spring and dampingelement which is arranged between the shaft wing and the frame unit. Theresetting unit is composed in particular of the shaft wing and thespring and damping element. Preferably, the shaft wing engages by way ofits opening into a geometry, which is of dovetail shape in crosssection, of the first spindle projection of the cage element. Theresetting action is preferably generated by means of the spring anddamping element, which engages through passage or blind holes into thewings of the shaft wing and lies at the other side on the frame element.The elasticity of the spring and damping element provides the desiredresetting and/or spring action. The elastic spring and damping elementis configured for generating a resetting force in particular in theevent of a deflection of the shaft wing, in particular at least in acircumferential direction, out of a rest position. In this context, a“shaft wing” is to be understood in particular to mean a shaftattachment which is in particular configured for coupling rotationallyconjointly to a shaft, in particular to the rotor of the drive unit. Theshaft wing preferably has an at least substantially rotationallysymmetrical base body, on which there are arranged oppositely situatedwings, which are configured for supporting the base body. The shaft wingis preferably configured at least partially for performing a rotationalmovement. In this context, a “spring and damping element” is to beunderstood in particular to mean an elastic element which is configuredfor moving the rotor back into a defined initial position after arotation. The elastic element is preferably furthermore configured fordamping the oscillating movement of the rotor. In particular, the springand damping element is configured for moving the spindle of theinterface into an initial position after the drive unit has beenswitched off. It is thus possible in particular to advantageously torealize an automatic resetting of the rotor. In particular, it can beachieved that the spindle of the interface always comes to a standstillin the same position. In this way, it is possible to realize easy,consistent installation of the brush attachment, whereby a high level ofconvenience can be achieved. The spring and damping element ispreferably furthermore configured for damping the oscillating movementof the rotor. In particular, the resetting unit is configured for movingthe spindle of the interface into an initial position after the driveunit has been switched off. With this arrangement, the orientation ofthe rotational position is not possible.

It is furthermore proposed that the elastic spring and damping elementis fixedly connected to the shaft wing. The elastic spring and dampingelement is preferably connected fixedly to the shaft wing by means of aplug-in connection. The elastic spring and damping element and the shaftwing form the resetting unit, wherein the resetting unit in particularlies only against the frame unit. The shaft wing lies against the frameunit in particular via the spring and damping element. It is furthermoreproposed that the elastic spring and damping element, in an installedstate, has a preload in relation to the frame unit, wherein the frameunit forms a support surface for the spring and damping element. Theelastic spring and damping element is preferably composed at leastpartially of a soft component, in particular of silicone, whereas theshaft wing is composed of a hard component. It is preferably proposedthat the elastic spring and damping element is composed at leastpartially of a soft component, in particular of silicone, with a Shore Ahardness of 25 Shore A to 75 Shore A, preferably of 35 Shore A to 65Shore A. It is furthermore proposed that the elastic spring and dampingelement is configured for limiting a rotation of the shaft wing to arotational angle of 2° to 10°, preferably of 3° to 7°. It is thuspossible in particular to advantageously realize an automatic resettingof the rotor. Furthermore, a number of components for a resettingaction, and a level of assembly effort, can be kept low.

The shaft wing has in particular a cross shape in plan view. In thecenter, the shaft wing has in particular an at least approximatelycylindrical base body which, in an axial direction, is provided with ablind hole with a rotational driving contour. The blind hole with therotational driving contour serves in particular for rotationallyconjointly receiving the spindle projection of the rotor. Opposite theblind hole in an axial direction, a projection is preferably formed onthe base body, which projection, in the installed state, prevents theaxial displacement within the assembly. Preferably, a detent device isfurthermore configured for securing the shaft wing on the spindleprojection of the rotor. The projection of the shaft wing preferably hasa diameter of 1.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably of 2.5 mm to mm. The length ofthe projection amounts in particular to 1.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably from2.5 mm to 3.5 mm. The blind hole of the shaft wing preferably has adepth of 7 mm to 14 mm, preferably of 9 mm to 12 mm. The width of theshaft wing, measured across the wings, amounts in particular to between14 mm and 22 mm, preferably between 17 mm and 19 mm. The outer diameterof the cylindrical body of the shaft wing advantageously amounts tobetween 7 mm and 11 mm, preferably between 8 mm and 10 mm.

The spring and damping element is, in cross section, formed inparticular as a semicircular element with lateral flanges. On itsunderside, the element has, on the flanges, preferably two projectionswhich, in the assembled state, lie on the frame unit. Projections arepreferably likewise provided on the top side, which projections areformed on the flanges adjacent to the geometry for receiving the shaftwing. Said projections are preferably configured for being installedinto the passage holes of the shaft wing and holding the two partstogether. The projections preferably have undercuts that realize this.The inner geometry of the spring and damping element is in particularadapted to the outer geometry of the shaft wing. The geometry isselected such that the required partial rotation of the shaft wing ispossible. The spring and damping element has in particular a length of 4mm to 8 mm, preferably 5 to 6.5 mm. The width perpendicular theretoamounts in particular to between 14 mm and 22 mm, preferably between 17mm and 19 mm. The height—from the rounding to the projection—amounts inparticular to between 6 mm and 11 mm, preferably between 7.5 mm and 9.5mm. The projections on the bottom side advantageously have a height of 1mm to 3 mm, preferably of 1.2 mm to 1.8 mm. The projections 162 b, 162b′ on the top side preferably have a height of 1.5 mm to 4 mm,preferably of 2 mm to 3.5 mm. The inner diameter on the spring anddamping element 148 b advantageously amounts to between 7 mm and 11 mm,preferably between 8 mm and 10 mm. It is furthermore proposed that thedrive unit is implemented of an oscillating armature motor. Theoscillating armature motor is preferably activated in sinusoidalfashion. In this way, it is possible in particular to realize animproved movement of the rotor of the drive unit. It is possible inparticular to realize an advantageously smooth movement of the rotor.Furthermore, noises of the drive unit can be reliably prevented. In thiscontext, an “oscillating armature motor” is to be understood inparticular to mean a drive which is configured for an electromagneticgeneration of a vibratory movement, in particular oscillating movement.The drive comprises in particular a positionally fixed iron core with anexciter coil and a movable rotor, which comprises at least one magnet.The rotor is preferably held in the rest position by means of aresetting spring.

It is furthermore proposed that the drive unit has at least one statorwhich has a carrier implemented as a single piece, a metal-sheet packagewhich is inserted into the carrier, and a coil which engages around themetal-sheet package. Preferably, the metal-sheet package forms an ironcore of the stator, whereas the coil forms an exciter coil of thestator. The coil of the stator is preferably activated in sinusoidalfashion during operation. The coil and the metal-sheet package areparticularly preferably free from contact. The stator is preferablyformed in particular from a prefabricated module, which can be insertedas a single piece. In this way, it is possible in particular for anadvantageously compact and easily assemblable stator to be provided. Itis possible in particular for a number of components to be kept low.Furthermore, in this way, it is possible to provide an advantageouslymodular stator. In this context, a “metal-sheet package” is to beunderstood in particular to mean a core which is composed of multiplelamination parts which are connected to one another and/or which bearagainst one another. The lamination parts preferably each have the sameshape and are connected side-by-side in the same orientation to form acore.

It is furthermore proposed that the carrier of the drive unit isconnected directly to the frame unit and covers a rotor of the driveunit from at least one side. The carrier of the drive unit is preferablyscrewed directly to the frame unit. Some other form of the connectionwhich appears expedient to a person skilled in the art would howeveralso be conceivable. The rotor of the drive unit is preferably receivedin particular in a receptacle region of the frame unit, wherein thereceptacle region is open preferably to one, preferably to at least twosides. The carrier is in particular configured for closing off at leastone open side of the receptacle region of the frame unit. It ispreferable if, in an assembled state, the rotor of the drive unit is atleast partially engaged around by the metal-sheet package of the stator.In this way, it is possible in particular for an advantageously easilyassemblable toothbrush handpiece to be provided. It is possible inparticular to realize an advantageously simple and reliable orientationof the stator relative to the rotor during an assembly process. In thisway, it is possible in particular for assembly errors to be avoided.

It is furthermore proposed that the electric toothbrush handpiece has atleast one stop element which is configured for limiting a rotation of arotor of the drive unit out of an initial position. The stop element ispreferably configured for limiting an oscillating movement of the rotor.The stop element preferably serves in particular for providing aconsistent movement of the rotor. Preferably, the stop element is formedin particular by a mechanical stop, against which the rotor mechanicallyabuts when it reaches an end position during a movement. In this way, amovement of the rotor can be targetedly limited. It is possible inparticular for a movement of the rotor to be targetedly limited indefined fashion. In particular, it is thus possible to prevent damage tothe resetting spring, in particular as a result of overloading and/orover-rotation. Furthermore, manual over-rotation of the rotor, forexample by an operator, by rotation of the brush attachment can beavoided. It is possible in particular for damage to the toothbrushhandpiece to be targetedly avoided.

It is furthermore proposed that the at least one stop element is formedby a pin which is connected fixedly to the rotor of the drive unit andwhich is mounted with one end elastically on the frame unit. The pin ispreferably inserted radially into an opening of the rotor, in particularof the spindle projection, particularly preferably of the second spindleprojection. The pin is preferably arranged in a positionally fixedmanner on the rotor, and in particular projects radially out of therotor. The pin is particularly preferably mounted, with an end avertedfrom the rotor, in the frame unit by means of an elastic sleeve, inparticular by means of a rubber sleeve. An advantageously simple stopelement can be realized in this way. In particular, an advantageouslycompact stop element can be provided in this way.

It is furthermore proposed that the stop element be designed to beintegrated directly into the shaft wing. The wings of the shaft wing lieover the spring and damping element, which in turn lies against theframe unit. By means of this arrangement, the movement of the wing ofthe shaft wing is limited, which corresponds to a limitation of themovement of the rotor, because the rotor is directly connected to theshaft wing, or the shaft wing is mounted onto the rotor.

It is furthermore proposed that the electric toothbrush handpiece has atleast one rotor cover which is connected fixedly to the frame unit andwhich, together with the frame unit, is configured for the supportand/or fixation of a rotor of the drive unit. The rotor of the driveunit is preferably received in particular in a receptacle region of theframe unit, wherein the receptacle region is open preferably to one,preferably to at least two sides. It is preferable for at least one openside of the receptacle region of the frame unit to be closed off by acarrier of the drive unit, wherein the rotor cover closes off inparticular the second open side. Preferably, the rotor cover is screwedto the frame unit. Some other form of the connection which appearsexpedient to a person skilled in the art would however also beconceivable. It is particularly preferable if both the rotor cover andthe frame unit form at least a semicircular spindle receptacle forreceiving at least one spindle projection of the rotor. The rotor ispreferably mounted directly between the frame unit and the rotor cover.Advantageously simple and fast assembly can be achieved in this way. Itis possible in particular for an advantageous cover and bearingarrangement of the rotor to be provided. Furthermore, it is possible inparticular for advantageously fast and positionally accurateinstallation of the rotor to be ensured. The rotor cover and the frameunit preferably furthermore serve for bearing and/or sealing off thespindle of the interface. The spindle is preferably mounted by means ofa seal in a spindle receptacle which is made up of a semicircularspindle receptacle of the frame unit and a semicircular spindlereceptacle of the rotor cover.

It is furthermore proposed that the at least one stop elementsimplemented integrally with the rotor cover. The stop element preferablyforms a projection which is implemented integrally with the rotor coverand which faces toward the rotor. It is preferable here if the shape ofthe projection is adapted to the end positions of the rotor. Preferably,the stop element is formed in particular by a protuberance in the rotorcover. An advantageously simple stop element can be realized in thisway. It is possible in particular for an advantageously easilyassemblable stop element to be provided. Furthermore, it is possible inparticular for a stop element to be provided which is advantageouslyrobust and easy to produce. It is preferably possible in particular fora separate stop element to be provided. In particular, it is merelynecessary for a shape of the rotor cover to be adapted.

The handpiece or the spindle 110 is, in at least one operating state,operated with a frequency of 200 Hz to 320 Hz, preferably of 240 Hz to280 Hz. The angle of deflection of the spindle 110 to each side of thezero position lies in particular in a range from 2.5° to 9°, preferablyfrom 4° to 7°.

The invention furthermore proceeds from a method for producing anelectric toothbrush handpiece.

The invention furthermore proceeds from an electric toothbrush havingthe electric toothbrush handpiece and having the brush attachment.

The invention furthermore proceeds from a system having a first electrictoothbrush handpiece with a first interface, having a second electrictoothbrush handpiece with a second interface which differs from thefirst interface, and having a brush attachment with an interfacereceptacle for receiving the first interface and the second interface.The first interface and the second interface preferably have differingshapes and/or dimensions, wherein the brush attachment is suitable forcaptively receiving the first interface and the second interface. Owingto the embodiment according to the invention of the system, the brushattachment can be utilized in particular for different toothbrushhandpieces. It is possible in particular to realize universal use of thebrush attachment.

In this context, the expressions “axial” and “radial” are in particularin relation to a main extent axis of the brush attachment and/or of theelectric toothbrush handpiece, such that the expression “axial” refersin particular to a direction which runs parallel or coaxially withrespect to one of the main extent axes. Furthermore, the expression“radial” hereinafter refers in particular to a direction which runsperpendicular to one of the main extent axes. It is preferable if themain extent axis of the brush attachment runs parallel to the mainextent axis of the electric toothbrush handpiece. Here, a “main extentaxis” of an object is to be understood in particular to mean an axiswhich runs parallel to a longest edge of a smallest geometricalrectangular cuboid which just completely encloses the object, and whichin particular intersects a geometrical central point of the object.

Furthermore, the expressions “top side” or “front side” of thetoothbrush are to be understood in this context to mean in particularthat side of the toothbrush on which the thumb is placed. The top sideor front side is normally also the side toward which the bristle array,in particular of the brush head of the brush attachment, is directed.The “bottom side” or “rear side” of the toothbrush is to be understoodin particular to mean that side which is averted from the bristle arrayof the brush head. Furthermore, the expressions “left-hand side” and“right-hand side” are each in relation to a view directed onto the frontside. The “bottom side of the head plate” refers to that side which isplaced into the recess of the base body and which points in thedirection of the bottom side of the toothbrush. Correspondingly, the“top side of the head plate” points in the direction of the top side ofthe toothbrush.

Here, it is not the intention for the brush attachment according to theinvention, the electric toothbrush handpiece, the electric toothbrush,the system and the method to be restricted to the use and embodimentdescribed above. In particular in order to perform a function describedherein, the brush attachment according to the invention, the electrictoothbrush handpiece, the electric toothbrush, the system and the methodmay have a number of individual elements, components and units whichdiffers from a number stated herein.

DRAWINGS

Further advantages will emerge from the following description of thedrawings. Two exemplary embodiments of the invention are illustrated inthe drawings. The drawings, the description and the claims includenumerous features in combination. The design variants presented in thisdocument are self-evidently exemplary. Within the scope of theinvention, the individual implementations and elements of these designvariants may be combined with other design variants without departingfrom the scope of this invention. A person skilled in the art willtherefore expediently also consider the features individually andcombine them to form further meaningful combinations.

In the figures:

FIG. 1 shows a brush attachment according to the invention with a brushhead and with an interface receptacle in a first 3D view,

FIG. 2 shows the brush attachment according to the invention with theinterface receptacle in a second 3D view,

FIG. 3 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in a third3D view,

FIG. 4 shows the brush attachment according to the invention with thebrush head in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 5 shows the brush attachment according to the invention with thebrush head in a plan view from the side,

FIG. 6 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in a planview from the rear,

FIG. 7 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in a planview directed along a longitudinal axis onto the interface receptacle,

FIG. 8 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in a planview directed along a longitudinal axis onto the brush head,

FIG. 9 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in alongitudinal sectional illustration along the section line IX-IX,

FIG. 10 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in alongitudinal sectional illustration along the section line X-X,

FIG. 11 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in across-sectional illustration along the section line,

FIG. 12 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in across-sectional illustration along the section line XII-XII,

FIG. 13 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in across-sectional illustration along the section line XIII-XIII,

FIG. 14 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in across-sectional illustration along the section line XIV-XIV,

FIG. 15 shows the brush attachment according to the invention in across-sectional illustration along the section line XV-XV,

FIG. 16 shows a toothbrush handpiece according to the invention with ahousing and with an interface in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 17 shows the toothbrush handpiece according to the invention withthe housing and with the interface in a plan view from the side,

FIG. 18 shows the toothbrush handpiece according to the invention withthe housing and with the interface in a plan view from the rear,

FIG. 19 shows an electric toothbrush with the electric toothbrushhandpiece and with the brush attachment in a first 3D view,

FIG. 20 shows the electric toothbrush with the electric toothbrushhandpiece and with the brush attachment in a second 3D view,

FIG. 21 shows an electric toothbrush with the electric toothbrushhandpiece and with the brush attachment in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 22 shows an electric toothbrush with the electric toothbrushhandpiece and with the brush attachment in a partially sectionalillustration from the side,

FIG. 23 shows the brush attachment with a first bristle arrayarrangement in a plan view from the side,

FIG. 24 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativesecond bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 25 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativethird bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 26 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativefourth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 27 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativefifth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 28 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativesixth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 29 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativeseventh bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 30 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativeeighth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 31 a shows the brush head of the brush attachment with analternative ninth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from thefront,

FIG. 31 b shows the brush head of the brush attachment with thealternative ninth bristle array arrangement in a 3D view,

FIG. 32 a shows the brush head of the brush attachment with analternative tenth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from thefront,

FIG. 32 b shows the brush head of the brush attachment with thealternative tenth bristle array arrangement in a 3D view,

FIG. 33 a shows the brush head of the brush attachment with analternative eleventh bristle array arrangement in a plan view from thefront,

FIG. 33 b shows the brush head of the brush attachment with thealternative eleventh bristle array arrangement in a 3D view,

FIG. 34 a shows the brush head of the brush attachment with analternative twelfth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from thefront,

FIG. 34 b shows the brush head of the brush attachment with thealternative twelfth bristle array arrangement in a 3D view,

FIG. 35 a shows the brush head of the brush attachment with analternative thirteenth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from thefront,

FIG. 35 b shows the brush head of the brush attachment with thealternative thirteenth bristle array arrangement in a 3D view,

FIG. 36 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativefourteenth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 37 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativefifteenth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 38 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativesixteenth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 39 shows the brush head of the brush attachment with an alternativeseventeenth bristle array arrangement in a plan view from the front,

FIG. 40 shows a part of the toothbrush handpiece according to theinvention with a frame unit, with an energy store, with a drive unit andwith the interface in a first 3D view,

FIG. 41 shows the part of the toothbrush handpiece according to theinvention with the frame unit, with the energy store, with the driveunit and with the interface in a second 3D view,

FIG. 42 shows the part of the toothbrush handpiece according to theinvention with the frame unit, with the energy store, with the driveunit and with the interface in an exploded illustration in the first 3Dview,

FIG. 43 shows the part of the toothbrush handpiece according to theinvention with the frame unit, with the energy store, with the driveunit and with the interface in an exploded illustration in the second 3Dview,

FIG. 44 shows a part of the toothbrush handpiece according to theinvention with the frame unit, with an alternative energy store, withthe drive unit and with the interface in a third 3D view,

FIG. 45 shows an alternative brush attachment according to the inventionin a plan view directed along a longitudinal axis onto the interfacereceptacle,

FIG. 46 shows the alternative brush attachment according to theinvention in a longitudinal sectional illustration corresponding to thesection line IX-IX as per FIG. 8 of the first example embodiment,

FIG. 47 shows the alternative brush attachment according to theinvention in a longitudinal sectional illustration corresponding to thesection line X-X as per FIG. 8 of the first example embodiment,

FIG. 48 shows the alternative brush attachment according to theinvention in a cross-sectional illustration along the section lineXLVIII-XLVIII,

FIG. 49 shows the alternative brush attachment according to theinvention in a cross-sectional illustration along the section lineXLIX-XLIX,

FIG. 50 shows the alternative brush attachment according to theinvention in a cross-sectional illustration along the section line L-L,

FIG. 51 shows the alternative brush attachment according to theinvention in a cross-sectional illustration along the section lineLI-LI,

FIG. 52 shows the alternative brush attachment according to theinvention in a cross-sectional illustration along the section lineLII-LII,

FIG. 53 shows a part of an alternative toothbrush handpiece according tothe invention with a frame unit, with an energy store, with a drive unitand with the interface and a frame unit of the charging coil in a first3D view,

FIG. 54 shows the part of the alternative toothbrush handpiece accordingto the invention with the frame unit, with the energy store, with thedrive unit and with the interface and a frame unit of the charging coilin a second 3D view,

FIG. 55 shows the part of the alternative toothbrush handpiece accordingto the invention with the frame unit, with the energy store, with thedrive unit and with the interface and a frame unit of the charging coilin an exploded illustration in the first 3D view,

FIG. 56 shows the part of the alternative toothbrush handpiece accordingto the invention with the frame unit, with the energy store, with thedrive unit and with the interface and a frame unit of the charging coilin an exploded illustration in the second 3D view,

FIG. 57 shows the part of an alternative toothbrush handpiece accordingto the invention with the frame unit, with the energy store, with thedrive unit which has a resetting unit which is composed of a shaft wingand a spring and damping element, with the interface and with a frameunit of the charging coil in a sectional illustration along LVII-LVIIthrough the shaft wing and the spring and damping element,

FIG. 58 shows the shaft wing and the spring and damping element of thedrive unit of the alternative toothbrush handpiece according to theinvention in an exploded illustration in the first 3D view, and

FIG. 59 shows the shaft wing and the spring and damping element of thedrive unit of the alternative toothbrush handpiece according to theinvention in an exploded illustration in the second 3D view.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1 to 15 show a brush attachment 10 a. The brush attachment 10 a isintended for a toothbrush handpiece 12 a. The brush attachment 10 a isintended for an electric toothbrush handpiece 12 a. The brush attachment10 a is implemented of an exchangeable brush. The brush attachment 10 aand/or an interface receptacle 20 a or 24 a is basically designed foruse with electric toothbrushes 90 a with a pivoting movement or with avibrating movement. The brush attachment 10 a and/or the interfacereceptacle 20 a or 24 a may however also be used for other products, forexample manual toothbrushes, in particular reusable toothbrushes, forexample exchangeable-head toothbrushes, alternative electrictoothbrushes, in particular with translational and/or rotatingmovements, with attachment parts with interdental cleaners, such as inparticular interdental brushes with twisted-in bristles and/or tonguecleaners.

Reference will be made below to FIGS. 1 to 15 , which show differentviews of the brush attachment 10 a. Owing to the different views, someelements are not illustrated in all of the figures, and arecorrespondingly not denoted by reference designations in all of thefigures.

The brush attachment 10 a has a head portion 14 a. The head portion 14 acomprises a brush head 16 a. Furthermore, the brush attachment 10 a hasan attachment portion 18 a. The attachment portion 18 a comprises aninterface receptacle 20 a. Furthermore, the brush attachment 10 a has aneck portion 22 a arranged between the head portion 14 a and theattachment portion 18 a. The head portion 14 a, the attachment portion18 a and the neck portion 22 a are in each case spatial portions of thebrush attachment 10 a. The head portion 14 a, the attachment portion 18a and the neck portion 22 a are in each case axial sub-portions of thebrush attachment 10 a Furthermore, the brush attachment 10 a isadvantageously composed of exactly three portions, specifically the headportion 14 a, the neck portion 22 a and the attachment portion 18 a. Theportions advantageously directly adjoin one another. The head portion 14a, the attachment portion 18 a and the neck portion 22 a together extendin an axial direction over the entire brush attachment 10 a.

As viewed from a front side, a general shape of the brush attachment 10a forms a profile from a relatively large width in the attachmentportion 18 a to a narrowing in the neck portion 22 a to a relativelylarge width in the head portion 14 a. The brush head 16 a of the brushattachment 10 a has a narrow, long basic shape. As viewed from a frontside, the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a is ofsubstantially elliptical shape. As viewed from the side, the brush head16 a has a constant thickness. It would however also be conceivable forthe brush head 16 a to have, as viewed from the side, a profile such asfor example an undulating shape or a thickness which increases towardthe neck region. Furthermore, additional functional elements such as forexample tongue cleaners may influence this dimension of the brush head16 a. Without bristles, the brush head 16 a has a height of 3 mm to 9mm, preferably of 4 mm to 6 mm. The brush head 16 a has no sharp edges.Furthermore, the brush attachment 10 a is of substantially rotationallysymmetrical shape in the neck portion 22 a and in the attachment portion18 a, wherein a smooth transition occurs, and the rotational symmetry islost, in the direction of the head portion 14 a. The transition betweenthe neck portion 22 a and the head portion 14 a is realized preferablyby means of a waisted portion, which forms a minimum diameter of thebrush attachment 10 a. A profile without a waisted portion would howeveralternatively also be conceivable. The consequence is that the headportion 14 a takes on a more bulky, less elegant appearance and is lessdifferentiated from the neck portion 22 a. Here, the brush attachment 10a is of conical form in the neck portion 22 a, wherein a diameterincreases toward the attachment portion 18 a. A conical shape of theneck portion 22 a is continued in the attachment portion 18 a, whereinthe brush attachment 10 a is furthermore, in the attachment portion 18a, of concave conical form toward a free end. Prior to a free endaverted from the brush head 16 a, the brush attachment 10 a has a shortportion cut in frustoconical shape, which forms a bevel and by means ofwhich a drip edge 108 a is formed. The drip edge 108 a forms a hardtransition from the bevel into the rounded profile of the outer skin.The drip edge 108 a forms a radially outermost edge of the brushattachment 10 a. Measured as a surface normal with respect to thelongitudinal axis, the bevel has an angle of 30° to 70°, preferably of40° to 60°. Furthermore, as viewed in an axial direction, the drip edge108 a has a spacing of 0.5 mm to 4 mm, preferably of 1 mm to 3 mm, tothe standing surface. The drip edge 108 a furthermore has a diameter of12 mm to 20 mm, preferably of 14 mm to 18 mm. By means of the presentdesign, it is possible for both geometrically relatively largehandpieces and also relatively slim handpieces to be coupled in avisually appealing manner to the brush attachment 10 a. In the case ofwide hand parts, the drip edge 108 a and the bevel form a termination,whereas, in the case of slim hand parts, the drip edge 108 a and thebevel form a transition. Furthermore, the drip edge 108 a has thefunction whereby, when the brush attachment 10 a is standing on astanding surface, liquid advantageously drips off the drip edge.Furthermore, by means of the drip edge 108 a, less liquid runs in thedirection of the standing surface, and thus, in the installed state, itis also the case that less liquid flows in the direction of theinterface 24 a.

The standing surface is formed at a free end, averted from the brushhead, of the attachment portion 18 a. A base body 26 a of the brushattachment 10 a forms the standing surface. The standing surface isformed by a ring-shaped surface of the base body 26 a which is arrangedaround the longitudinal axis. Here, the surface has a width of 0.5 mm to2 mm, preferably of 0.7 mm to 1.5 mm. Furthermore, an outer diameter ofthe standing surface amounts to 9 mm to 17 mm, preferably 11 mm to 15mm, and an inner diameter amounts to 7 mm to 15 mm, preferably 9 mm to13 mm. The standing surface makes it possible for the brush attachment10 a to be set down on a planar surface such that a main extentdirection 98 a of the brush attachment 10 a extends substantiallyperpendicular to the surface. The question of whether the standingsurface can perform its function effectively is dependent on variousfactors which influence the center of gravity, for example aconfiguration of the bristle array 43 a, in particular of the bristlelength, and/or a mass distribution in the body.

The brush attachment 10 a has an axial length of 50 mm to 110 mm,preferably of 70 mm to 90 mm. Furthermore, the brush attachment 10 ahas, in the head portion 14 a, a width of 7 mm to 16 mm, preferably of10 mm to 14 mm. In the neck portion 22 a, the brush attachment 10 a hasa width of 3 mm to 8 mm, preferably of 5 mm to 7 mm. In the neck portion18 a, the brush attachment has a width of 12 mm to 20 mm, preferably of14 mm to 18 mm.

Furthermore, the brush attachment 10 a has a supporting base body 26 a.The supporting base body 26 a has a hard component. The supporting basebody 26 a is composed of a hard component. It would however basicallyalso be conceivable for the base body to be composed of multipledifferent hard components. In particular, it would thus be possible torealize different characteristics in different body parts of the basebody 26 a by means of the various components. For example, it would bepossible for the interface receptacle 20 a to be formed from a materialfor a good form and good characteristics of the interface receptacle 20a, whereas the head portion 14 a itself is composed of a second materialwhich is more resistant to chemical oral hygiene agents such astoothpaste. Alternatively, use may be made of plastics of varyingdensity or else of specific masterbatch with different density. Forvibrating toothbrushes such as sonic, ultrasonic etc., the weightdistribution in the product may be of extremely high relevance for thepropagation of the vibrations. For example, it would be possible forcomponents of the base body 26 a or else other components to be designedto be of high density in order to increase the weight in order tooptimize vibration. Furthermore, by means of heavy regions, a certainweight distribution can be realized in order to obtain optimumvibration. For example, with a second, heavy hard material, inparticular 2-component injection molding, it is preferably even possiblefor a ring to be introduced by injection molding on the inside so as notto be visible. Three hard components, and/or a combination with softcomponents, are furthermore also conceivable. The supporting base body26 a forms a supporting structure of the brush attachment 10 a. Thesupporting base body 26 a forms a supporting structure of the brush head16 a. Furthermore, the supporting base body 26 a forms a supportingdelimitation of the interface receptacle 20 a. Furthermore, the brushhead 16 a is coupled substantially rigidly to the interface receptacle20 a by means of the supporting base body 26 a. The supporting base body26 a extends from the attachment portion 18 a via the neck portion 22 ato the head portion 14 a. The base body 26 a is implemented as a singlepiece. It would however basically also be conceivable for the base body26 a to be at least partially interrupted, and for the brush attachment10 a to have, for example, a movable joint by means of which the brushhead 16 a is movably mounted.

The brush attachment 10 a may also be formed only from hard components,or be composed only of a base body 26 a without overmold 32 a.

Furthermore, the brush attachment 10 a has an overmold 32 a. Theovermold 32 a is composed of a different material than the base body 26a. The overmold 32 a has a soft component. The overmold 32 a is composedof a soft component. The overmold 32 a and the base body 26 a areproduced in a multi-component injection molding process. In principle,however, some other production method that appears to be expedient to aperson skilled in the art would also be conceivable. The overmold 32 aencloses a substantial part of an outer surface of the base body 26 a.In the region of a front side of the brush head 16 a, the base body 26 ais free from the overmold 32 a. In this way, it is possible inparticular for an introduction of bristles to be made possible moreeffectively. It would however also be conceivable for the brush head 16a to be equipped with soft elements composed of the soft component ofthe overmold 32 a. Furthermore, the base body 26 a is free from theovermold 32 a in the region of the interface receptacle 20 a.Furthermore, the base body 26 a has, on a rear side of the brush head 26a, a support region 92 a which is free from the overmold 32 a. Thesupport region 92 a serves in particular for supporting the brush head16 a during an introduction of bristles into the base body 26 a and/orduring the overmolding of the base body 26 a. Here, the overmold 32 awould deflect, and, in the process, would not allow accurate positioningfor a bristle-fitting process. Additionally, a tongue cleaner could alsobe realized on the rear side of the brush head 26 a. The tongue cleanermay for example have studs and/or lamellae, in particular in circles orin a straight line, or undulating longitudinal or transverse strips, andbe produced from a hard component, a soft component or hard and softcomponents. In the case of soft components being used, the softcomponent may be formed for example as a ring around the support region92 a. Furthermore, the base body 26 a has, in the neck portion 22 a, alogo region 94 a which is free from the overmold 32 a. The logo region94 a serves in particular for the application of a print to the basebody 26 a, for example by pad printing, laser labelling or embossment.Alternatively, a labelling may be realized already as a labelling insertin the injection molding tool. Here, the labelling is realized asrecessed or elevated lettering. A secondary function of the logo region94 a is furthermore support for accurate positioning of the base body 26a in the injection molding tool during the injection of a secondcomponent, or the soft component, for the overmold 32 a.

The interface receptacle 20 a has multiple partial receptacle regions 36a, 38 a, 40 a, 96 a. The interface receptacle 20 a is divided intomultiple partial receptacle regions 36 a, 38 a, 40 a, 96 a. Theinterface receptacle 20 a has a first, substantiallyrectangular-cuboidal partial receptacle region 36 a. The first partialreceptacle region 36 a forms a partial receptacle region of theinterface receptacle 20 a. The first partial receptacle region 36 a isconfigured for receiving a tip of the interface 24 a of the toothbrushhandpiece 12 a. The first partial receptacle region 36 a is configuredfor receiving a front, free spindle region of a spindle 110 a of theinterface 24 a of the toothbrush handpiece 12 a. The first partialreceptacle region 36 a forms a partial receptacle region, facing towardthe brush head 16 a, of the interface receptacle 20 a. Furthermore, thefirst, substantially rectangular-cuboidal partial receptacle region 36 ahas a narrowing 42 a. The first partial receptacle region 36 a narrowsradially from at least one side at the narrowing 42 a. The first partialreceptacle region 36 a narrows radially from two opposite sides at thenarrowing 42 a. Here, the narrowing 42 a is formed by two oppositelysituated bevelled shoulders. Here, a cross section of the first partialreceptacle region 36 a decreases in an axial direction toward the brushhead 16 a. On a side of the narrowing 42 a facing toward the secondpartial receptacle region 38 a, the first partial receptacle region 36 ahas an axial length of 2 mm to 7 mm, preferably of 3.5 mm to 5 mm. On aside of the narrowing 42 a averted from the second partial receptacleregion 38 a, the first partial receptacle region 36 a has an axiallength of 5 mm to 11 mm, preferably of 7 mm to 9 mm. A rear side of thefirst partial receptacle region 36 a has, on a side of the narrowing 42a facing toward the second partial receptacle region 38 a, a maximumspacing of 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably of 1 mm to 2 mm, to a longitudinalaxis of the brush attachment 10 a. Furthermore, the rear side of thefirst partial receptacle region 36 a has, on a side of the narrowing 42a averted from the second partial receptacle region 38 a, a maximumspacing of 0.8 mm to 1.6 mm, preferably of 1.1 mm to 1.4 mm, to alongitudinal axis of the brush attachment 10 a. Furthermore, the frontside of the first partial receptacle region 36 a has, on a side of thenarrowing 42 a averted from the second partial receptacle region 38 a, amaximum spacing of 0.8 mm to 1.6 mm, preferably of 1.1 mm to 1.4 mm, toa longitudinal axis of the brush attachment 10 a. The sides of the firstpartial receptacle region 36 a have, on a side of the narrowing 42 afacing toward the second partial receptacle region 38 a, a maximumspacing of 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably of 1 mm to 2 mm, to a longitudinalaxis of the brush attachment 10 a. Furthermore, the sides of the firstpartial receptacle region 36 a have, on a side of the narrowing 42 aaverted from the second partial receptacle region 38 a, a maximumspacing of 1 mm to 2 mm, preferably of 1.3 mm to 1.7 mm, to alongitudinal axis of the brush attachment 10 a. The first partialreceptacle region 36 a has a certain “taper” owing to the requireddemoldability during the production process, in particular during theinjection molding process. The clamping of the spindle 110 a occurs inthe first partial receptacle region 36 a. The spindle 110 a does nothowever lie completely thereon, because complementary geometries with anair gap in between are formed. For example, the spindle has, as viewedin a cross section, a rounded geometry, which is arranged in a polygonalpart of the interface geometry.

Furthermore, the interface receptacle has a second, substantiallycylindrical partial receptacle region 38 a. The second partialreceptacle region 38 a projects axially at least partially into thefirst partial receptacle region 36 a. The second partial receptacleregion 38 a is arranged so as to axially fully overlap the first partialreceptacle region 36 a. The second partial receptacle region 38 a isarranged axially entirely within the first partial receptacle region 36a. The second partial receptacle region 38 a is arranged at an end ofthe first partial receptacle region 36 a which is averted from the endof the interface receptacle 20 a. The second partial receptacle region38 a terminates, on a side facing toward the opening of the interfacereceptacle 20 a, together with the first partial receptacle region 36 a.A maximum cross section of the second partial receptacle region 38 aperpendicular to a main extent direction 98 a of the brush attachment 10a is larger than a corresponding maximum cross section of the firstpartial receptacle region 36 a. The first partial receptacle region 36 ais eccentric in relation to the second partial receptacle region 38 a.The first partial receptacle region 36 a projects, in a region ofoverlap with the second pressure receptacle region, with at least twoedges axially through the second partial receptacle region 38 a. Thefirst partial receptacle region 36 a projects, in a region of overlapwith the second pressure receptacle region, with at least two edgesradially out of the second partial receptacle region 38 a. Furthermore,the second partial receptacle region 38 a has a narrowing 100 a. Thesecond partial receptacle region 38 a narrows from at least one sideradially toward the first partial receptacle region 36 a at thenarrowing 100 a. Here, the narrowing 100 a is formed by a bevelledshoulder. The narrowing 100 a has an angle of 25° to 65°, preferably of35° to 55°, with respect to the longitudinal axis of the brushattachment 10 a. A minimum spacing of the narrowing to the longitudinalaxis of the brush attachment 10 a amounts to 0.3 mm to 1.5 mm,preferably 0.5 mm to 1 mm. The narrowing has an axial length of 0.2 mmto 2 mm, preferably of 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. Here, a cross section of thesecond partial receptacle region 38 a decreases in an axial directiontoward the brush head 16 a. The first partial receptacle region 36 a andthe second partial receptacle region 38 a are jointly ofmirror-symmetrical form. The second partial receptacle region 38 a has,on a side averted from the brush head 16 a, a diameter of 2 mm to 6 mm,preferably of 3.5 mm to 5 mm. Furthermore, the second partial receptacleregion 38 a has a length of 2 mm to 6 mm, preferably of 2.5 mm to 4.5mm. The second partial receptacle region 38 a is partially slightlyinclined relative to a longitudinal axis of the brush attachment 10 a.Here, the second partial receptacle region 38 a or the side wallsthereof, has an angle of 0.5° to 5°, preferably of 1° to 3°, withrespect to the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, on a side facing towardthe brush head 16 a, the second partial receptacle region forms a beveltoward the first partial receptacle region 36 a. The second partialreceptacle region 38 a serves for receiving the spindle 110 a and forguiding the spindle 110 a into the correct position in the interfacereceptacle 20 a. For this purpose, the spindle 110 a is, at thislocation, of rounded form on one side, in the direction of the rearside, and has a flattened portion on the front side.

Furthermore, the interface receptacle 20 a has a third, frustoconicalpartial receptacle region 40 a. The third partial receptacle region 40 aaxially directly adjoins the second partial receptacle region 38 a. Thethird partial receptacle region 40 a has no overlap with the firstpartial receptacle region 36 a and the second partial receptacle region38 a. Furthermore, the third partial receptacle region 40 a is arrangedat least approximately coaxially with respect to the second partialreceptacle region 38 a. Preferably, the third partial receptacle region40 a directly adjoins the first partial receptacle region 36 a and thesecond partial receptacle region 38 a. The third partial receptacleregion 40 a adjoins the first partial receptacle region 36 a and thesecond partial receptacle region 38 a on a side facing toward theopening of the interface receptacle 20 a. Preferably, the interfacereceptacle 20 a comprises a union of the first partial receptacle region36 a, the second partial receptacle region 38 a and the third partialreceptacle region 38 a. A maximum cross section of the third partialreceptacle region 40 a perpendicular to the main extent direction 98 aof the brush attachment 10 a is larger than a corresponding maximumcross section of the second partial receptacle region 38 a. At an endaverted from the second partial receptacle region 26 a, the thirdpartial receptacle region 40 a has a diameter of 5 mm to 13 mm,preferably of 7 mm to 11 mm. At an end facing toward the second partialreceptacle region 26 a, the third partial receptacle region 40 a has adiameter of 4 mm to 12 mm, preferably of 6 mm to 10 mm. Furthermore, thethird partial receptacle region 40 a has an axial length of 3 mm to 11mm, preferably of 5 mm to 9 mm. The third partial receptacle region 40 ais substantially rotationally symmetrical.

Furthermore, the interface receptacle 20 a has a fourth partialreceptacle region 96 a. The fourth partial receptacle region 96 a has afrustoconical shape, wherein a lateral surface of the partial receptacleregion 96 a is concavely curved. The fourth partial receptacle region 96a axially directly adjoins the third partial receptacle region 40 a.Furthermore, the fourth partial receptacle region 96 a is arrangedapproximately coaxially with respect to the third partial receptacleregion 40 a. The fourth partial receptacle region 96 a directly adjoinsthe third partial receptacle region 40 a. On a side facing toward theopening of the interface receptacle 20 a, the fourth partial receptacleregion 96 a adjoins the third partial receptacle region 40 a. The fourthpartial receptacle region 96 a forms the opening of the interfacereceptacle 20 a. The fourth partial receptacle region 96 a serves forreceiving a shank of the interface 24 a of the toothbrush handpiece 12a. The fourth partial receptacle region 96 a forms the location at whicha spindle 110 a of the toothbrush handpiece 12 a is inserted into thebrush attachment 10 a. The fourth partial receptacle region 96 a servesas an insertion aid and starts with a small shoulder in relation to thestanding surface. The fourth partial receptacle region 96 a has, at afree end, a diameter of 7 mm to 15 mm, preferably of 9 mm to 13 mm. At atransition to the third partial receptacle region 40 a, the fourthpartial receptacle region 96 a has a diameter of 5 mm to 13 mm,preferably of 7 mm to 11 mm. Furthermore, the fourth partial receptacleregion 96 a axially has a length of 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably of 1.5 mmto 3.5 mm. The fourth partial receptacle region 96 a is substantiallyrotationally symmetrical. The third partial receptacle region 40 a andthe fourth partial receptacle region 96 a serve for receiving a cam ofthe toothbrush handpiece 12 a. If no cam is present, the spindle 110 ais guided through the “space” through which it can be guided, becausethe spindle 110 a generally has a smaller volume than a cam.

The interface receptacle 20 a is formed by a universal interfacereceptacle. The interface receptacle 20 a is suitable for receiving atleast two different interfaces 24 a of different toothbrush handpieces12 a. The interface receptacle 20 a therefore fits with interfaces 24 aof different shape and/or dimensions. The supporting base body 26 a,which partially adjoins the interface receptacle 20 a, has a clampingunit 28 a for this purpose. The clamping unit 28 a is configured forbeing elastically deflected for the purposes of receiving an interface24 a of a toothbrush handpiece 12 a. The clamping unit 28 a isconfigured for clamping the spindle 110 a. The clamping unit 28 adirectly adjoins the interface receptacle 20 a. The clamping unit 28 ais arranged axially in a region of the first partial receptacle region36 a. The clamping unit 28 a is arranged axially entirely in a region ofthe first partial receptacle region 36 a. Furthermore, the clamping unit28 a is arranged partially axially in a region of the second partialreceptacle region 38 a.

The clamping unit 28 a has an at least partially freestanding clampingwall 30 a, 30 a′ which directly adjoins the interface receptacle 20 a.The clamping unit 28 a has two partially freestanding clamping walls 30a, 30 a′ which directly adjoin the interface receptacle 20 a on oppositesides. The clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′ adjoin in each case one side ofthe interface receptacle 20 a. The first partial receptacle region 36 aof the interface receptacle 20 a is delimited to two opposite sides bythe clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′, The clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′ arepartially free-standing relative to a remaining part of the base body 26a. The clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′ are partially set free in relation tothe remaining part of the base body 26 a by means of slots and apertureswith respect to the interface receptacle 20 a, which slots and aperturesextend in each case parallel to the longitudinal axis. In each caseproceeding from the interface receptacle 20 a, the slots are arrangedbehind the clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′, whereas the apertures arearranged adjacent to the clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′ and open into theinterface receptacle 20 a. The slots and apertures each have a length of6.5 mm to 9 mm, preferably of 7 mm to 8 mm. The overall dimension ofslot together with the width of the clamping wall amounts to 1 mm to 2.5mm, preferably 1.2 mm to 1.8 mm. The apertures each have a height of0.02 mm to 0.3 mm, preferably of 0.05 mm to 0.15 mm, and a width of 0.1mm to 0.5 mm, preferably of 0.15 mm to 0.3 mm. The clamping walls 30 a,30 a′ are configured for being deflected radially outward when the brushattachment 10 a is attached to a toothbrush handpiece 12 a. The clampingwalls 30 a, 30 a′ of the clamping unit 28 a extend axially in aninsertion direction 102 a of the interface 24 a beyond the narrowing 42a of the first partial receptacle region 36 a. The clamping walls 30 a,30 a′ of the clamping unit 28 a are, in the insertion direction 102 a,arranged axially behind the narrowing 100 a of the second partialreceptacle region 38 a. The overmold 32 a directly encloses at least asubstantial part of the clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′ in each case in atleast one plane 34 a. The overmold 32 a encloses the clamping walls 30a, 30 a′ in each case in a radial direction on a side averted from theinterface receptacle 20 a. The clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′ are delimitedto two sides by the overmold 32 a. As viewed radially from the interfacereceptacle 20 a, the overmold 32 a is situated behind the clamping walls30 a, 30 a′. The base body 26 a has, behind the clamping walls 30 a, 30a′ on a side averted from the interface receptacle 20 a, in each caseone two-stage recess which becomes narrower toward the inside and widertoward the outside. In a region of the apertures of the base body 26 awhich have been formed by injection molding by means of the overmold 32a, the overmold 32 a directly adjoins the interface receptacle 20 a. Theovermold 32 a serves for cushioning an elastic deflection of theclamping walls 30 a, 30 a′. The clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′ have an axialspacing to the standing surface of 3 mm to 6 mm, preferably of 4 mm to 5mm. Furthermore, the clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′ each have a wallthickness of 0.3 mm to 1.2 mm, preferably of 0.5 mm to 0.9 mm. Theclamping walls 30 a, 30 a′ are designed such that, in the inserted stateof the spindle 110 a, they lie flat against the spindle 110 a. Thespindle 110 a is of laterally flat design in the region of the clampingwalls 30 a, 30 a′. The contact surfaces of the clamping walls 30 a, 30a′ are likewise of smooth form.

A clamping force imparted by the clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′ is basicallydependent on the spindle construction or on the geometry of the spindle110 a and the dimensions of the spindle 110 a. Clamping occurs not bymeans of punctiform contact but by means of areal contact of the parts.In parallel with the lateral clamping, there is automatically also acertain facility for clamping of the element on the rear side, betweenthe two apertures. A desired clamping force of the clamping walls 30 a,30 a′ amounts to 1 kg to 4 kg, preferably 1.2 kg to 2.5 kg.

It would basically also be conceivable for the free spaces around theinner geometry not to be filled with overmold 32 a. This could inparticular constitute a single-component solution, for example by virtueof the brush attachment 10 a being composed only of a hard component,and technical geometries, such as in particular the clamping walls 30 a,30 a′, not being overmolded, and thus being free-standing. Aninexpensive brush attachment 10 a could be created in this way.Furthermore, a further facility for ventilation during the insertion ofthe spindle 110 a can be created.

Furthermore, the clamping unit 28 a has a partially freestandingclamping web 104 a. The clamping web 104 a is arranged axially at theheight of the clamping walls 30 a, 30 a′. The clamping web 104 adelimits the first partial receptacle region 36 a of the interfacereceptacle 20 a to a third side. The clamping web 104 a of the clampingunit 28 a extends axially in an insertion direction 102 a of theinterface 24 a beyond the narrowing 42 a of the first partial receptacleregion 36 a. The overmold 32 a directly encloses at least a substantialpart of the clamping web 104 a in at least one plane 34 a. The overmold32 a encloses the clamping web 104 a in a radial direction on a sideaverted from the interface receptacle 20 a.

The overmold 32 a has various functions. By means of the overmold 32 a,a high level of flexibility of the clamping, and of the resetting, canbe achieved. Furthermore, it is generally possible for improved grip ofthe brush attachment 10 a to be realized. Furthermore, in the assembledstate, the overmold 32 a has sealing functions for example of theinterface receptacle 20 a with respect to the environment. Furthermore,the overmold 32 a serves for damping of the brush head 16 a. Thepossible molding of a tongue cleaner out of the overmold has alreadybeen discussed.

Furthermore, the clamping unit 28 a has a clamping elevation 106 a whichprojects at least partially into the interface receptacle 20 a. Theclamping elevation 106 a is realized as an elevation on an inner wall,which delimits the interface receptacle 20 a, of the base body 26 a. Theclamping elevation 106 a is arranged axially entirely in a region of thefirst partial receptacle region 36 a. The clamping elevation 106 a is,in the insertion direction 24 a, arranged axially behind the narrowing42 a of the first partial receptacle region 36 a. The clamping elevation106 a is at an axial distance of at least 1 mm, preferably at least 1.5mm and preferably at most 3 mm, particularly preferably at most 2.5 mm,from the narrowing 42 a. The clamping elevation 106 a extends axially asfar as an end of the first partial receptacle region 36 a. For thepurposes of demoldability, the clamping elevation 106 a extends axiallyas far as an end of the first partial receptacle region 36 a. Theclamping elevation 106 a has an axial length of 4 mm to 8 mm, preferablyof 5 mm to 7 mm. Furthermore, the clamping elevation 106 a has a widthof 0.7 mm to 1.8 mm, preferably of 1 mm to 1.5 mm, and a height of 0.04mm to 0.5 mm, preferably of 0.06 mm to 0.3 mm. The clamping elevation106 a furthermore has a spacing to the central axis of 0.7 mm to 1.5 mm,preferably of 1 mm to 1.3 mm. The clamping elevation 106 a is arrangedon a side the clamping web 104 a of the clamping unit 28 a. The clampingelevation 106 a is arranged on a rear side of the first partialreceptacle region 38 a. The clamping elevation 106 a extends partiallyaxially beyond the clamping web 104 a. A pulling-off force of the brushattachment can be set through adaptation of a height of the clampingelevation 106 a. The clamping elevation 106 a therefore serves forsettability of the retention force and for clamping of the spindle 110 ain the interface receptacle 20 a. A contact surface of the spindle 110 awith respect to the clamping elevation 106 a preferably has acorrugation and/or roughening.

An illustrated hole array 109 a of the brush head 16 a in the base body26 a is, as illustrated, designed for the use of conventional filaments.The hole array 109 a has three regions. The hole array 109 a has a frontregion, which is directed toward the free end. The front region has twotransverse rows. A foremost row has two holes, whereas a second row hasthree holes. The hole array 109 a has an increasing number of holestoward a central region of the hole array 109 a. The central region ofthe hole array 109 a is arranged in the center of the hole array 109 aand has five transverse rows. The transverse rows each have four holes.Furthermore, the hole array 109 a has a rear region, which is directedtoward the brush neck. The rear region has three transverse rows. Afirst transverse row, adjoining the central region, has three holes.This is followed by a further row with three holes. At the free end,another transverse row with two holes is provided. The number of holesdecreases toward the neck portion 22 a. In order that the differentregions can be created, the holes are arranged in transverse rows inorder that a displacement and thus cutting/profiling of the bristles ispossible.

FIG. 23 shows the brush head 16 a with a conventional bristle array 43 awith a conventional arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.1 a. Here, inparticular, different implementations of the bristle array 43 a in thehole array 109 a are conceivable. For example, bundles of bristles witha pointed and with a rounded cylindrical end may be provided, whereinthe bristle array 43 a may provide identical bristle bundles 44.1 aand/or asymmetrically punched bristle bundles 44 a. Furthermore, acentral ridge may be formed in the bristle array 43 a, wherein thebristle array 43 a is in this case composed in particular of cylindricalfilaments. Here, a section is in particular implemented such that thefront and the rear end are elevated and an elevation and/or a ridge islikewise formed in the center of the bristle array 43 a. The centralridge may in this case be realized both by means of flat bristle bundles44.1 a, wherein a profiling is realized by means of multiple smallsteps, and by means of bristle bundles 44.1 a cut at an angle, as shownin FIG. 23 . It would alternatively also be conceivable for the ridge tobe formed as a relatively tall bundle transverse row, wherein a frontand rear end of the bundle transverse row is cut obliquely. As filamentsfor the bristle bundles 44.1 a, various filaments that appear expedientto a person skilled in the art are conceivable, for example 2-componentfilaments, Stain Devil filaments (of Perlon®), charcoal orspiral/twister filaments in a bristle array of a sonic brush.

Further bristle fitting methods that appear expedient to a personskilled in the art are furthermore also conceivable. For example, itwould be conceivable for recesses for AFT plates or for the PTt processto be provided in the brush head 16 a. In particular, it would beconceivable for the bristle fitting method to be designed specificallyfor pivoting and sonic movements. This may be realized for example bymeans of the PTt process, because here, a minimal head thickness isrequired, and therefore less “material” is required. It is thus possibleto realize a small spacing of the bristles from the edge.

Furthermore, further alternative designs and arrangements of the bristlebundles 44.1 a.1 of the bristle array 43 a are also conceivable. FIGS.24 to 39 show, by way of example, different alternative embodiments andarrangements of bristle bundles 44.2 a; 44.3 a; 44.4 a; 44.5 a; 44.6 a;44.7 a; 44.8 a; 44.9 a; 44.10 a; 44.11 a; 44.12 a; 44.13 a; 44.14 a;44.15 a; 44.16 a; 44.17 a of the bristle array 43 a for the brush head16 a. Here, the brush head 16 a has in each case one bristle array 43 awith at least two significantly differing bristle bundles 44.2 a; 44.3a; 44.4 a; 44.5 a; 44.6 a; 44.7 a; 44.8 a; 44.9 a; 44.10 a; 44.11 a;44.12 a; 44.13 a; 44.14 a; 44.15 a; 44.16 a; 44.17 a. The bristlebundles 44.2 a; 44.3 a; 44.4 a; 44.5 a; 44.6 a; 44.7 a; 44.8 a; 44.9 a;44.10 a; 44.11 a; 44.12 a; 44.13 a; 44.14 a; 44.15 a; 44.16 a; 44.17 ain this case differ in each case with regard to a shape and/or anorientation.

FIG. 24 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative second arrangement of the bristle bundles 44 a.2 of thebristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.2 a are each formed byridges. The bristle bundles 44.2 a are each formed by ridges which, in alongitudinal profile, are curved and have different lengths. Here, abend is in particular individual and may basically also vary within abristle array 43 a and/or within the bristle bundle 44.2 a. One of thebristle bundles 44.2 a has a ring shape. A proportion of the bristlebundles 44.2 a is curved around the rind-shaped bristle bundle 44.2 a,whereas a proportion of the bristle bundles 44.2 a is curved away fromthe ring-shaped bristle bundle 44.2 a.

FIG. 25 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative third arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.3 a of thebristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.3 a are each formed byridges. The bristle bundles 44.3 a are each formed by ridges which; in alongitudinal profile; are curved. One of the bristle bundles 44.3 a hasa rind shape. A remainder of the bristle bundles 44.3 a are curvedaround the ring-shaped bristle bundle 44.3 a.

FIG. 26 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative fourth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.4 a of thebristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.4 a are in each casepartially formed by ridges. Furthermore, two of the bristle bundles 44.4a are formed by conventional circular bundles. A proportion of thebristle bundles 44.4 a is curved around the circular bristle bundles44.4 a, whereas a proportion of the bristle bundles 44.4 a is curvedaway from the circular bristle bundles 44.4 a.

FIG. 27 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative fifth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.5 a of thebristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.5 a are in each casepartially formed by ridges. Furthermore, two of the bristle bundles 44.5a are formed by conventional circular bundles. The ridge-like bristlebundles 44.5 a are curved around the circular bristle bundles 44.5 a.

FIG. 28 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative sixth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.6 a of thebristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.6 a in each case partiallyhave an arrow shape, wherein the tips are directed outward. In this way,an advantageous cleaning action can be achieved, in particular in thecase of use on a sonic toothbrush or a toothbrush with a reciprocatingpivoting movement. Furthermore, several of the bristle bundles 44.6 aare formed by conventional circular bundles.

FIG. 29 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative seventh arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.7 a of thebristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.7 a are formed byconventional circular bundles, wherein a size of the bristle bundles44.7 a varies and the distribution is at least partially random. Thedistribution in particular has no axis of symmetry parallel to the maindirections of the toothbrush. Also integrated are two bristle bundles44.7 a situated one inside the other, wherein one is designed as acircular-ring-shaped bundle, and the other is shaped as a conventionalcircular bundle situated inside the circular-ring-shaped bundle.

FIG. 30 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative eighth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.8 a of thebristle array 43 a. A proportion of the bristle bundles 44.8 a is formedby conventional circular bundles, wherein a size of the bristle bundles44.8 a varies. A further proportion of the bristle bundles 44.8 a has anopen-die implementation.

FIGS. 31 a and 31 b show the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10a with an alternative ninth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.9 a ofthe bristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.9 a are each formed byridges. The bristle bundles 44.9 a are each formed by ridges which areof undulating form in a longitudinal profile and/or an end profile. Thenumber of undulation peaks and troughs is in particular variable. It ispossible for different undulations to be provided in the same bristlearray 43 a. The ridges have in each case partially different inclinedpositions, wherein the angle of the inclined positions in the bristlebundles 44.9 a relative to a normal of the brush head 16 a increasestoward the front and rear end of the bristle array 43 a, and the bristlebundles 44.9 a of the central ridges stand more vertically.

FIGS. 32 a and 32 b show the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10a with an alternative tenth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44 a.10of the bristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.10 a have an elongatebasic shape and have in each case partially different inclinedpositions. The transversely arranged ridges with an inclined position,considered together, form an X shape when the bristle array is viewed ina longitudinal direction.

FIGS. 33 a and 33 b show the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10a with an alternative eleventh arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.11a of the bristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.11 a are eachpartially formed by ridges which, in a longitudinal profile, are curved.Furthermore, the bristle bundles 44.11 a have in each case partiallydifferent inclined positions, with an X shape again being formed.

FIGS. 34 a and 34 b show the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10a with an alternative twelfth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.12 aof the bristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.12 a are eachpartially formed by ridges which, in a longitudinal profile, are curved.Furthermore, the bristle bundles 44.12 a have in each case partiallydifferent inclined positions. The main extent of most ridges is parallelto the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush, wherein the bend of theindividual ridges is embodied symmetrically to the longitudinal axis ofthe toothbrush.

FIGS. 35 a and 35 b show the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10a with an alternative thirteenth arrangement of the bristle bundles44.13 a of the bristle array 43 a. The bristle bundles 44.13 a are eachpartially formed by ridges which, in a longitudinal profile, are curved.Furthermore, the bristle bundles 44.13 a have in each case partiallydifferent inclined positions. The main extent of the ridges is parallelto the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush, wherein the bend of theindividual ridges is embodied symmetrically to the longitudinal axis ofthe toothbrush.

FIG. 36 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative fourteenth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.14 a.14 ofthe bristle array 43 a. A proportion of the bristle bundles 44.14 a isformed by conventional circular bundles. Furthermore, a proportion ofthe bristle bundles 44.13 a is formed in each case by ridges which arecurved in a longitudinal profile and which have in each case partiallydifferent inclined positions.

FIG. 37 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative fifteenth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.15 a of thebristle array 43 a. Two of the bristle bundles 44.15 a are of ellipticalshape. Furthermore, multiple bristle bundles 44.15 a are arranged aroundthe elliptical bristle bundles 44.15 a, which additional bristle bundleshave different, in some cases also converging, inclined positions.

FIG. 38 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative sixteenth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.16 a of thebristle array 43 a. A proportion of the bristle bundles 44.16 a has anopen-die form configuration and forms in each case the shape of aturbine blade. Furthermore, at least two of the bristle bundles 44.16 aare formed by conventional circular bundles. The freeform bristlebundles 44.16 a are arranged around the circular bristle bundles 44.16a,

FIG. 39 shows the brush head 16 a of the brush attachment 10 a with analternative seventeenth arrangement of the bristle bundles 44.17 a ofthe bristle array 43 a. One of the bristle bundles 44.17 a is ofelliptical shape. A remainder of the bristle bundles 44.17 a has anopen-die form configuration and forms in each case the shape of aturbine blade. The freeform bristle bundles 44.17 a are arranged aroundthe elliptical bristle bundle 44.17 a.

The bristle bundles 43 a in each case all have a certain symmetry, inparticular point symmetry and/or mirror symmetry. Arrangements withoutsymmetry would however basically also be conceivable. Furthermore, yetfurther arrangements and shapes of the bristle bundles are conceivable,for example in the form of multilevel tufts, wherein the bristle bundleshave different heights within the bristle bundle.

FIG. 16 shows an electric toothbrush handpiece 12 a. The toothbrushhandpiece 12 a has an interface 24 a for coupling to the brushattachment 10 a. The interface 24 a has a spindle 110 a for directengagement into the interface receptacle 20 a of the brush attachment 10a. The spindle 110 a is formed by a metal shaft. Some other embodimentof the spindle 110 a that appears expedient to a person skilled in theart would however basically also be conceivable. Furthermore, thetoothbrush handpiece 12 a has a housing 46 a. The housing 46 a has abase body 112 a composed of a hard component. The base body 112 a formsa supporting structure of the housing 46 a. The base body 112 a isimplemented as a single piece. In principle, however, a differentembodiment that appears to be expedient to a person skilled in the art,for example a two-shell design, would also be conceivable. The housing46 a furthermore has an overmold 114 a composed of a soft material. Theovermold 114 a is arranged partially on an outer surface of the basebody 112 a. The overmold 114 a forms a grip region of the housing 46 a.Furthermore, the electric toothbrush handpiece 12 a has a lid 113 a. Thelid 113 a is configured for closing off the housing 112 a on a sideaverted from the interface 24 a (FIGS. 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20 ).

Reference will be made below to FIGS. 40 to 44 , which show differentviews of the toothbrush handpiece 12 a, wherein the housing 46 a and thelid 113 a are omitted from the figures in each case. Owing to thedifferent views, some elements are not illustrated in all of thefigures, and are correspondingly not denoted by reference designationsin all of the figures.

Furthermore, the toothbrush handpiece 12 a has a fix frame unit 52 aarranged in the housing 46 a. In an assembled state, the frame unit 52 ahas been pushed into the housing 46 a. The frame unit 52 a isimplemented as a single piece. The frame unit 52 a extends axially overa major part of the housing 46 a. The frame unit 52 a is formed by aplastics frame. The frame unit 52 a is composed of plastic, preferably apolypropylene. Some other embodiment of the frame unit 52 a that appearsexpedient to a person skilled in the art would however basically also beconceivable. The frame unit 52 a furthermore has various geometries,arranged adjacently in a line, for receiving different components of theinternal parts of the toothbrush handpiece 12 a. Furthermore, the frameunit 52 a has apertures and slots for cables and for the purposes ofreducing weight.

Furthermore, the toothbrush handpiece 12 a has a drive unit 48 a fordriving the interface 24 a, which is received in the housing 46 a. Thedrive unit 48 a is configured for driving the spindle 110 a of theinterface 24 a. The drive unit 48 a is formed by a motor. The drive unit48 a is implemented of an oscillating armature motor. The frame unit 52a at least partially receives the drive unit 48 a. The frame unit 52 afully receives the drive unit 48 a. The drive unit 48 a is installeddirectly in the frame unit 52 a. In particular, no separate motorassembly is provided. The drive unit 48 a has a rotor 58 a. The rotor 58a is configured for performing an oscillating movement. The rotor 58 ahas an integrally formed cage element 60 a. The cage element 60 a isconfigured for receiving at least one magnet 62 a, 62 a′. The cageelement 60 a is configured for receiving two magnets 62 a, 62 a′, Themagnets 62 a, 62 a′ are formed in each case by permanent magnets. Thecage element 60 a has in each case one receiving region for receivingthe magnets 62 a, 62 a′. Furthermore, the cage element 60 a has a basebody 64 a, which comprises the at least one receiving region, andspindle projections 66 a, 68 a which are arranged to both sides of thebase body 64 a and which form a rotary spindle of the rotor 58 a. Thespindle projections 66 a, 68 a are arranged in each case on oppositesides of the base body 64 a. A first spindle projection 66 a is arrangedon a side of the base body 64 a averted from the interface 24 a. Asecond spindle projection 68 a is arranged on a side of the base body 64a facing toward the interface 24 a. The second spindle projection 68 ais coupled directly to the interface. The second spindle projection 68 ais configured for rotationally conjointly receiving the spindle 110 a ofthe interface 24 a. Here, the spindle 110 a can be received for exampleby means of an interference fit, by adhesive bonding or by welding.Furthermore, the rotor 58 a has at least one cover 70 a, 70 a′ which isconfigured for closing off the receptacle regions of the cage element 60a. The rotor 58 a has at least two covers 70 a, 70 a′ which areconfigured in each case for closing off one side of the receivingregions of the cage element 60 a and which in particular simultaneouslyalso serve for diverting the magnetic field. The receiving regions arein each case open to two opposite sides and are closed off by means ofthe covers 70 a, 70 a′ after the magnets 62 a, 26 a′ have been inserted.The covers 70 a, 70 a′ are in each case screwed onto, adhesively bondedto or screwed to the base body 64 a of the cage element 60 a. During anassembly process, it is preferably firstly the case that the first cover70 a is connected to the base body 64 a, the magnets 62 a, 62 a′ aresubsequently inserted, and thereafter the second cover 70 a′ isconnected to the base body 64 a. Bearings 118 a, 120 a for the bearingof the rotor 58 a are subsequently installed. The rotor 58 a is receivedby means of its bearings 118 a, 120 a in a receiving region of the frameunit 52 a. The receiving region for the rotor 58 a is open to twoopposite sides. The covers 70 a, 70 a″″ are configured for covering themagnets 62 a, 62 a″″ and for distributing a magnetic field of themagnets 62 a, 62 a″″.

Furthermore, the drive unit 48 a has a resetting spring 72 a. Theresetting spring 72 a is formed by a helical spring. Some otherembodiment of the resetting spring that appears expedient to a personskilled in the art, for example in the form of a spiral spring or leafspring, would however also be conceivable. The resetting spring 72 a is,by way of a first end, coupled rotationally conjointly to the firstspindle projection 66 a of the rotor 58 a. For this purpose, theresetting spring 72 a engages with a first end into a groove of thefirst spindle projection 66 a of the cage element 60 a, which grooveruns radially through an axis of rotation of the rotor 58 a. The firstend of the resetting spring 72 a is furthermore fixed on the firstspindle projection 66 a by means of a nut 115 a, which is screwed ontothe first spindle projection 66 a, and by means of a clamping ring 117 awhich interacts with said nut. The clamping ring 117 a serves foroptimally distributing, onto the resetting spring 72 a, the force forthe fixing by means of the nut 115 a. Furthermore, the resetting spring72 a is, by way of a second end, fixed in a variable rotationally fixedmanner to the frame unit 52 a by means of a fixing element 74 a. Theresetting spring 72 a is fixed in a variable rotationally fixed mannerto the frame unit 52 a with regard to a rotational position. Theresetting spring 72 a is designed to be fixable in a rotationally fixedmanner to the frame unit 52 a in different rotational positions relativeto the frame unit 52 a by means of the fixing element 74 a. By means ofthe fixing element 74 a, an overall rotational position of the resettingspring 72 a relative to the frame unit 52 a can be set in order tocompensate for tolerances in the manufacture of the resetting spring 72a. An initial position of the rotor 58 a relative to the frame unit 52 acan be indirectly set. For this purpose, the fixing element 74 a,receiving the second end of the resetting spring 72 a, is fixed againstthe frame unit 52 a by means of a screw 116 a which extends through theframe unit 52 a into the fixing element 74 a. Here, the second end ofthe resetting spring 72 a is received in a recess of the fixing element74 a. Here, the screw 116 a is guided through an elongated hole of theframe unit 52 a, such that the fixing element 74 a can be fixed to theframe unit 52 a in different positions relative to the frame unit 52 a.The second end of the resetting spring 72 a is thus held in a presentposition. Here, in particular, the second end of the resetting spring 72a can be fixed in different positions relative to the frame unit 52 a.During an assembly process, it is possible here for the fixing element74 a to be preassembled with the resetting spring 52 a, with the screw116 a not being tightened. Subsequently, the spindle 110 a or the rotor58 a can be oriented, and the screw 116 a can be subsequently tightened.The resetting spring 72 a is configured in particular for performing arotation of 2° to 10°, preferably of 3° to 7°.

Alternatively, the screw 116 a may be guided not through an elongatedhole but through a simple blind hole. In this way, the settability islost, such that no orientation is possible. The resetting spring 72 acan however nevertheless be positioned and fixed.

Furthermore, the drive unit 48 a has a stator 76 a. The stator 76 acomprises a carrier 78 a which is implemented as a single piece, ametal-sheet package 80 a which is inserted into the carrier 78 a, and acoil 82 a which engages around the metal-sheet package 80 a. The stator76 a comprises the carrier 78 a which is implemented as a single pieceand which is composed of a hard component, the metal-sheet package 80 awhich is inserted into the carrier 78 a, the coil 82 a which engagesaround the metal-sheet package 80 a, and a lamination plate coverarranged between the coil 82 a and the metal-sheet package 80 a. Thestator 76 a is formed as a module. The carrier 78 a is formed by aplastics carrier. The carrier 78 a is formed by a substantiallyrectangular-cuboidal carrier which has, on a first side, arectangular-cuboidal recess for receiving the metal-sheet package 80 a.The metal-sheet package 80 a has a U-shaped cross section, wherein thefree ends of the metal-sheet package 80 a point in each case away fromthe carrier. The metal-sheet package 80 a is composed of a multiplicityof lamination plates packed side-by-side. The lamination plates areadhesively bonded, pressed, engaged with detent action, or connected insome other way in the carriers 78 a. Furthermore, the carrier 78 a has,on a rear side of the recesses, a guide groove for receiving the coil 82a. The coil 82 a encloses the carrier 78 a and the metal-sheet package80 a. The coil 82 a is wound around the metal-sheet package 80 a and thecarrier 78 a. The coil 82 a is oriented in a longitudinal direction. Thecoil 82 a and the metal-sheet package 80 a are designed to be free fromcontact. For isolation of the coil 82 a relative to the metal-sheetpackage 80 a on a side averted from the carrier 78 a, the stator 76 ahas an isolation plate (not shown in any more detail) which is arrangedbetween the coil 82 a and the metal-sheet package 80 a. The isolationplate is formed by a lamination plate cover. The isolation plate iscomposed of plastic. The lamination plate cover is installed byengagement with detent action, adhesive bonding or the like. Theisolation plate protects the wire of the coil 82 a from the edges of themetal-sheet package 80 a and prevents a short circuit between the coil82 a and the metal-sheet package 80 a. The carrier 78 a of the driveunit 48 a is connected directly to the frame unit 52 a. The carrier 78 ais screwed to the frame unit 52 a. In principle, however, some otherconnection that appears expedient to a person skilled in the art wouldalso be conceivable. The carrier 78 a covers the rotor 58 a of the driveunit 48 a from one side. The carrier 78 a covers a first open side ofthe receiving region of the frame unit 52 a for the rotor 58 a.Furthermore, the metal-sheet package 80 a projects partially into thereceiving region of the rotor 58 a. The metal-sheet package 80 a engagesat least partially around the rotor 58 a in an assembled state.

Furthermore, the electric toothbrush handpiece 12 a has a rotor cover 88a. The rotor cover 88 a covers the rotor 58 a of the drive unit 48 afrom a side situated opposite the carrier 78 a. The rotor cover 88 acovers a second open side of the receiving region of the frame unit 52 afor the rotor 58 a. In an assembled state, the rotor 58 a is surroundeddirectly by the stator 76 a, the frame unit 52 a and the rotor cover 88a. The rotor cover 88 a is formed by a plastics part. The rotor cover 88a is fixedly connected to the frame unit 52 a The rotor cover 88 a isconnected opposite the carrier 78 a to the frame unit 52 a. The rotorcover 88 a is screwed to the frame unit 52 a. In principle, however,some other form of the connection which appears expedient to a personskilled in the art would also be conceivable. The rotor cover 88 a isconfigured together with the frame unit 52 a for bearing and fixing therotor 58 a of the drive unit 48 a. The rotor cover 88 a and the frameunit 52 a form in each case two semicircular spindle receptacles forreceiving the rotor 58 a. The semicircular spindle receptacles areformed in each case by corresponding spindle receptacles which togetherform a complete spindle receptacle. The spindle receptacles areconfigured in each case for receiving the two spindle projections 66 a,68 a of the rotor 58 a by means of in each case one bearing 118 a, 120a. For this purpose, the bearings 118 a, 120 a are received in thespindle receptacles, which bearings 118 a, 120 a are in turn configuredfor bearing the spindle projections 66 a, 68 a of the rotor 58 arelative to the frame unit 52 a. Various embodiments of the bearings 118a, 120 a which appear expedient to a person skilled in the art areconceivable. The rotor 58 a is mounted between the frame unit 52 a andthe rotor cover 88 a. The rotor cover 88 a is furthermore configuredtogether with the frame unit 52 a for bearing and sealing off thespindle 110 a of the interface 24 a. For this purpose, the rotor cover88 a and the frame unit 52 a form in each case one semicircular spindlereceptacle for receiving a sealing ring 122 a and a bearing 124 a forthe spindle 110 a. The spindle 110 a is mounted between the rotor cover88 a and the frame unit 52 a. Various embodiments of the bearing 124 awhich appear expedient to a person skilled in the art are conceivable.For example, it would be conceivable for the bearing 124 a to be formedin each case by a plain bearing composed of plastic or of the materialiglidur. The rotor cover 88 a therefore extends axially from the driveunit 48 a to a point at which the spindle of the interface 24 a emergesfrom the housing 46 a.

Furthermore, the electric toothbrush handpiece 12 a has a covering cap126 a. The covering cap 126 a is configured for being pushed over aspindle-side end of the rotor cover 88 a and of the frame unit 52 a. Inan assembled state, the covering cap 126 a engages around in each casethe spindle-side end of the rotor cover 88 a and of the frame unit 52 a.The covering cap 126 a serves for further connection and centering ofthe rotor cover 88 a and of the frame unit 52 a relative to one another.Furthermore, the covering cap 126 a serves for spindle guidance of thespindle 110 a of the interface 24 a. For this purpose, the spindle 110 ais guided through the covering cap 126 a. Furthermore, the covering cap126 a serves for sealing off a housing interior with respect to theinterface 24 a. The covering cap 126 a serves for sealing between thehousing 46 a and the frame unit 52 a. For this purpose, the covering cap126 a comprises a sealing ring 128 a.

Furthermore, the electric toothbrush handpiece has at least one stopelement 84.1 a, 84.2 a. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, twostop elements 84.1 a, 84.2 a are disclosed by way of example, wherein itwould basically also be possible for only one of the two stop elements84.1 a, 84.2 a to be provided. The stop elements 84.1 a, 84.2 a areconfigured for limiting a rotation of the rotor 58 a of the drive unit48 a out of an initial position. The stop elements 84.1 a, 84.2 a formin each case one end stop of the rotor 58 a in the case of anoscillating drive movement. The stop elements 84.1 a, 84.2 a serve inparticular for preventing an overextension of the resetting spring 72 a.A first stop element 84.1 a is formed by a pin 86 a which is fixedlyconnected to the rotor 58 a of the drive unit 48 a. The pin 86 a isinserted radially into an opening 130 a of the rotor 58 a. The pin 86 ais inserted radially into an opening 130 a of the second spindleprojection 68 a. The pin 86 a is arranged in a positionally fixed manneron the rotor 58 a and projects partially radially out of the rotor 58 a.Furthermore, the pin 58 a is, by way of one end, mounted elastically onthe frame unit 52 a. The pin 58 a is, by way of a free end, mountedelastically on the frame unit 52 a. The pin 58 a is, by way of an endaverted from the rotor 58 a, mounted by means of an elastic sleeve 132 ain an opening 131 a of the frame unit 52 a. The sleeve 132 a is formedfor example by a silicone sleeve. In principle, however, some otherembodiment that appears expedient to a person skilled in the art wouldalso be conceivable. The stop positions or a maximum angle is definedhere by means of the size of the opening 131 a in the frame unit 52 a.

A second stop element 84.2 a is implemented integrally with the rotorcover 88 a. The second stop element 84.2 a forms a projection which isimplemented integrally with the rotor cover 88 a and which faces towardthe rotor 58 a. Here, the shape of the second stop element 84.2 a isadapted to the end positions of the rotor 58 a. The second stop element84.2 a serves as a stop for the base body 64 a of the cage element 60 aand/or for the covers 70 a, 70 a′ of the rotor 58 a. The second stopelement 84.2 a is formed by a protuberance in the rotor cover 88 a. Itwould however basically also be conceivable for the second stop element84.2 a to be formed by a separate component which is fastened to therotor cover 88 a.

The stop elements 84.1 a, 84.2 a and the corresponding delimitingcounterpart elements, that is to say in particular the openings 130 a,131 a and the cover 70 a′, are selected/shaped such that a movement outof a zero position is possible only to an extent of 3° to 12°,preferably of 4° to 8°, to each side.

Furthermore, the toothbrush handpiece 12 a has an energy store 50.1 a;50.2 a which is received in the housing 46 a and which serves forsupplying energy to the drive unit 48 a. The frame unit 52 a receivesthe energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a. The energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a isarranged on a side of the drive unit 48 a averted from the interface 24a. The energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a is clamped radially by lateralholding arms of the frame unit 52 a. Furthermore, a longitudinaldisplacement of the energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a is prevented by means ofthe chamber-like construction of the frame unit 52 a. The energy store50.1 a; 50.2 a is arranged substantially coaxially with respect to thedrive unit 48 a. The energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a is embodied as anaccumulator, in particular an NiMh accumulator and/or an Li-ionaccumulator. In principle, however, a different embodiment of the energystore 50.1 a; 50.2 a that appears to be expedient to a person skilled inthe art, for example as a battery, would also be conceivable. Forexample, two different energy stores 50.1 a; 50.2 a are provided, whichare used for the toothbrush handpiece 12 a. A first proposed energystore 50.1 a, as illustrated in FIGS. 40, 42 and 43 , is formed by asingle energy storage cell. The first proposed energy store 50.1 a isembodied as an AA energy storage cell. A second proposed energy store50.2 a, as illustrated in FIG. 44 , is formed by three energy storagecells which are connected by means of a frame 134 a of the energy store50.2 a. The frame 52 a is, with slight modifications, suitable forreceiving both energy stores 50.1 a; 50.2 a. The frame unit 52 a isconfigured both for receiving a single AA energy storage cell and forreceiving three AAA energy storage cells in the frame 134 a. The frame134 a is configured for connecting the three energy storage cells inseries. The series connection is realized by means of plates whichconstitute the contact points with respect to the energy storage cells.An axial extent of the frame 134 a corresponds to an axial extent of theindividual AA energy storage cells.

The electric toothbrush handpiece 12 a furthermore has a charging coil54 a for charging of the energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a. Charging of theenergy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a directly by means of a plug-in connectionwould however basically also be conceivable. The charging coil 54 a isimplemented of an induction coil. The charging coil 54 a is received inthe fix frame unit 52 a. The frame unit 52 a has a receiving region forreceiving the charging coil 54 a in a positionally fixed manner. Thecharging coil 54 a is held and clamped from the outside by the frameunit 52 a. For this purpose, the frame unit 52 a has at least two tofive, preferably at least three to four, holding arms 55 a, which areformed integrally on a base body of the frame unit 52 a and which securethe position of the charging coil 54 a both radially and axially. Theframe unit 52 a preferably has, for example, exactly four holding arms.Some other number of holding elements that appears expedient to a personskilled in the art, in particular also of more than five, is howeverbasically also conceivable. The charging coil 54 a is installed inparticular along the longitudinal axis. The charging coil 54 a isarranged on a side of the energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a which is avertedfrom the drive unit 48 a. The charging coil 54 a is arrangedsubstantially coaxially with respect to the energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 aand the drive unit 48 a. Furthermore, in an assembled state, the lid 113a engages into the charging coil 54 a in order to make it possible for aferrite core of a charging unit to be positioned in the coil. Thecharging coil 54 a has in particular an inner diameter of 6 mm to 14 mm,preferably of 8 mm to 15 mm, and an outer diameter of 12 mm to 19 mm,preferably of 14 mm to 17 mm. Furthermore, the charging coil 54 a has inparticular a height of 4 mm to 15 mm, preferably of 5 mm to 10 mm.

Furthermore, the electric toothbrush handpiece 12 a has a circuit board56 a. The circuit board 56 a is configured for controlling the driveunit 48 a. The circuit board 56 a is configured for activating the driveunit 48 a in sinusoidal fashion during operation. For this purpose, thecircuit board 56 a is coupled to the energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a. Theenergy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a is connected by means of lines via thecircuit board 56 a, on which the controller is integrated, to the driveunit 48 a itself. The energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a is connected to thecoil 82 a which is wound around the metal-sheet package 80 a, whereinthe coil 82 a lies not directly on the metal-sheet package 80 a but liesat one side on the carrier 78 a and at the other side on the laminationplate cover. In the coil 82 a, an alternating current is generated whichhas the effect that an alternating polarity forms at the free ends ofthe metal-sheet package 80 a. The magnets 62 a, 62 a′ are arrangedfixedly in the rotor 58 a and are installed by means of the covers 70 a,70 d, which optimize the field formed by the magnets 62 a, 62 a′. Therotor 58 a is mounted rotatably within the metal-sheet package 80 a.Owing to the polarization of the free ends of the metal-sheet package 80a, the rotor 58 a with the magnets 62 a, 26 a′ seeks to realign in thefield, giving rise to a movement. If the polarity of the ends of themetal-sheet package 80 a is reversed, then the rotor 58 a seeks torotate in the other direction. This gives rise to an oscillatingback-and-forth movement of the rotor 58 a. The resetting spring 72 a onthe rotary spindle ensures the return of the rotor 58 a into a zeroposition, and it furthermore ensures softer movement transitions whenthe polarity changes. Overall, the resetting spring 72 a is required inorder that the movements are possible in the first place, because theforces resulting from the polarization would otherwise be so great thatno oscillation would be possible.

What the circuit board 56 a controls are the energy pulses fed to thedrive unit 48 a. These variables are specifically adapted to the presentdrive or to the product. In order that smooth running of the drive unit48 a is achieved, the drive unit 48 a is activated in sinusoidal fashionand not with pulses and intervals.

Furthermore, the circuit board 56 a is coupled to the charging coil 54a. The circuit board 56 a is configured for controlling a chargingprocess of the energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a. Furthermore, the circuitboard 56 a has an actuating element 136 a which can be actuated throughthe base body 112 a of the housing 46 a and which serves for anactivation and/or deactivation of the toothbrush handpiece 12 a. Theactuating element 136 a is configured for being actuated through theovermold 114 a of the housing 46 a. Also provided on the circuit board56 a are further elements such as, in particular, lines, resistors, LEDsand/or a control unit. The circuit board 56 a is furthermore partiallyreceived in positively locking fashion by the frame unit 52 a andextends over a major part of the axial extent of the frame unit 52 a.The circuit board 56 a extends at least over the energy store 50.1 a;50.2 a and the drive unit 48 a of the toothbrush handpiece 12 a. Toreceive the circuit board 56 a in positively locking fashion, the frameunit 52 a has multiple hook-like positive-locking elements 138 a, whichare configured for partially engaging over the circuit board 56 a in anassembled state. For an installation process, the circuit board 56 ahas, on an outer edge, recesses 140 a which correspond to thepositive-locking elements 138 a and via which the circuit board 56 acan, for installation thereof, be moved past the positive-lockingelements 138 a into an end position. During an installation process, thecircuit board 56 a is preferably mounted onto the frame unit 52 a in amanner offset with respect to a final position, wherein the circuitboard 56 a can be guided past the positive-locking elements 138 a bymeans of the recesses 140 a. The circuit board 56 a is subsequentlypushed under the positive-locking elements 138 a and thereby fixed. Forthis purpose, the circuit board 56 a has separate small cutouts (notvisible in any more detail) for the detent engagement in the endposition. The positive-locking elements 138 a additionally serve ashold-down means, which hold the circuit board 56 a in non-positivelylocking fashion. At a lower end of the circuit board 56 a, the frameunit 52 a furthermore has a stop with a ramp, which serves for exactpositioning of the circuit board 56 a.

Tolerances between the frame unit 52 a and its components and thehousing 46 a must be compensated for in order that firstly the actuatingelement 136 a, in the assembled state, is in the correct position forthe actuation through the housing 46 a, but secondly also the chargingcoil 54 a is situated optimally in order that the inductive chargingprocess attains an optimum efficiency. Furthermore, tolerances must becompensated in order that the frame unit 52 a is seated firmly in thehousing 46 a and no noises are generated during operation. The lengthcompensation for the compensation of tolerances may be realized throughthe installation of a compressible length compensation element 57 a, forexample composed of a compressible plastic, which is fitted for examplebetween charging coil 54 a and frame unit 52 a. It would howeverfurthermore also be possible for elastic elements to be integrated onthe frame unit 52 a in order to ensure the length compensation. By wayof example, flexible elements which are placed under stress, that is tosay bent, when the lid 113 a is installed.

Altogether, the frame unit 52 a may be divided into multiple zones. Theframe unit 52 a has a coil zone. The coil zone forms the first zone asviewed from below, and serves for directly receiving, and for the directinstallation of, the charging coil 54 a. The frame unit 52 a furthermorehas an accumulator zone. The accumulator zone directly adjoins the coilzone and is configured for receiving the energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a.The frame unit 52 a furthermore has a spring zone. The spring zonedirectly adjoins the accumulator zone on a side averted from the coilzone, and is configured for receiving the resetting spring 72 a and thefixing element 74 a. The frame unit 52 a furthermore has an oscillatingarmature zone. The oscillating armature zone directly adjoins the springzone on a side averted from the coil zone, and is configured forreceiving the drive unit 48 a. The frame unit 52 a is of continuouslyopen form in the region of the oscillating armature zone. The frame unit52 a furthermore has a spindle zone. The spindle zone directly adjoinsthe oscillating armature zone on a side averted from the coil zone, andis configured for receiving the interface 24 a or the spindle 110 a ofthe interface 24 a. The frame unit 52 a furthermore has a print zone.The print zone is arranged on a front side of the frame unit and isconfigured for receiving the circuit board 56 a.

Fitting of items into the frame unit 52 a is performed substantially viaa rear side. Only the circuit board 56 a and the stator 76 a areinstalled from the front. Furthermore, the charging coil 54 a and aconnecting cap are installed along the longitudinal axis. The drive unit48 a and the energy store 50.1 a; 50.2 a are installed from a rear sideof the frame unit 52 a.

During a process of assembly of the electric toothbrush handpiece 12 a,it is preferably the case that, in a first step, all of the internalparts are installed via the frame unit 52 a and are subsequently, in asecond step, pressed into the housing 46 a. Here, the frame unit 52 a isclamped in the housing 46 a. For this purpose, the frame unit 52 a hasdetent lugs which engage into detent recesses of the housing 46 a.Subsequently, in a third step, the lid 113 a is fixed to the housing 46a and thus fixes and closes off the internal parts. The lid 113 a may beboth screwed and for example locked by means of a bayonet fastener tothe housing 46 a.

FIGS. 19 to 22 show an electric toothbrush 90 a with the electrictoothbrush handpiece 12 a and with the brush attachment 10 a in anattached state. Owing to the different views, some elements are notillustrated in all of the figures, and are correspondingly not denotedby reference designations in all of the figures. During an installationof the brush attachment 10 a onto the electric toothbrush handpiece 12a, the correct installation is ensured by means of the shape of thespindle 110 a. During the insertion, the operator knows for examplewhere the front is, in particular by means of the bristles on the brushattachment 10 a and by means of the design of the toothbrush handpiece12 a. The geometry in the interior of the brush attachment 10 a leads toaccurate and correct installation owing to the different steps andprofiles of the interface receptacle 20 a and ultimately by means of theguidance of the two flattened portions of the spindle 110 a at the frontand at the rear. During the installation process, a free end of thespindle 110 a serves as a stop.

To further stabilize the brush attachment 10 a on the toothbrushhandpiece 12 a, it is possible to fill the cavity of the interfacereceptacle 20 a in the region in which the spindle 110 a emerges fromthe handpiece housing. This may be realized for example by means of theformation of a journal around the spindle 110 a, wherein said journalmay be designed as a continuation of the covering cap 126 a. It isfurthermore also possible to fill the cavity with a part which is fittedover the spindle 110 a. It is possible here for the part to be mountedreversibly or irreversibly on the spindle. By virtue of the cavity beingfilled, the brush attachment 10 a has a stop in the event of loading. Inthis way, the forces of the loading are, during use, diverted also tothe housing and/or the frame unit rather than the spindle, such that thedrive unit is relieved of load.

A further exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 45 to59 . The following descriptions are restricted substantially to thedifferences between the exemplary embodiments, wherein, with regard tounmodified components, features and functions, reference may be made tothe description of the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 44 . Fordistinction between the exemplary embodiments, the alphabetic charactera in the reference designations of the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 1to 44 has been replaced by the alphabetic character b in the referencedesignations of the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 45 to 59 . With regardto identically designated components, in particular with regard tocomponents with identical reference designations, reference maybasically also be made to the drawings and/or the description of theexemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 59 .

FIGS. 45 to 52 show an alternative design variant of an interfacereceptacle 20 b or of a clamping unit 28 b of a brush attachment 10 b.The external shape of the brush attachment 10 b does not visually changeif it is overmolded. A base body 26 b of the brush attachment 10 bhowever has a different appearance.

The clamping unit 28 b has an at least partially freestanding clampingwall 30 b, 3013′ which directly adjoins the interface receptacle 20 b.The clamping unit 28 b has two partially freestanding clamping walls 30b, 30 b′ which directly adjoin the interface receptacle 20 b on oppositesides. The clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ adjoin in each case one side ofthe interface receptacle 20 b. The first partial receptacle region 36 bof the interface receptacle 20 b is delimited to two opposite sides bythe clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′. The clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ arepartially free-standing relative to a remaining part of the base body 26b. The clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ are partially set free in relation tothe remaining part of the base body 26 b by means of slots and apertureswith respect to the interface receptacle 20 b, which slots and aperturesextend in each case parallel to the longitudinal axis. In each caseproceeding from the interface receptacle 20 b, the slots are arrangedbehind the clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′, whereas the apertures arearranged adjacent to the clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ and open into theinterface receptacle 20 b. In the embodiment, the slot is shaped suchthat, in a first part, the clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ are of identicalshape to the first embodiment. The slot then continues in taperingfashion in the direction of the head portion, that is to say the heightof the wall or the depth of the slot decreases to zero. The total lengthof the slots and of the apertures amounts to 10.5 mm to 14.5 mm,preferably 11 mm to 13 mm. The further dimensions remain the same as inthe first embodiment. The clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ are configured forbeing deflected radially outward when the brush attachment 10 b isattached to a toothbrush handpiece 12 b. The clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′of the clamping unit 28 b extend axially in an insertion direction 102 bof an interface 24 b beyond the narrowing 42 b of the first partialreceptacle region 36 b. The clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ of the clampingunit 28 b are, in the insertion direction 102 b, arranged axially behinda narrowing 100 b of the second partial receptacle region 38 b. Anovermold 32 b directly encloses at least a substantial part of theclamping walls 30 b, 30 bc in each case in at least one plane 34 b. Theovermold 32 b encloses the clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ in each case in aradial direction on a side averted from the interface receptacle 20 b.The clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ are delimited to two sides by theovermold 32 b. As viewed radially from the interface receptacle 20 b,the overmold 32 b is situated behind the clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′. Thebase body 26 b has, behind the clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ on a sideaverted from the interface receptacle 20 b, in each case one two-stagerecess which becomes narrower toward the inside and wider toward theoutside. In a region of the apertures of the base body 26 b which havebeen formed by injection molding by means of the overmold 32 b, theovermold 32 b directly adjoins the interface receptacle 20 b. Theovermold 32 b serves for cushioning an elastic deflection of theclamping walls 30 b, 30 b′. The contact surfaces of the clamping walls30 b, 30 b′ are of smooth form.

In this second embodiment, it is furthermore the case that the partiallyfree-standing clamping web 104 b is designed as a clamping bridge 142 b.The clamping bridge 142 b is identified by the fact that it is ofelastic form like the clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′. The clamping bridge142 b is of elastic form. In this way, it can contribute to the clampingforce and lead to an increased pulling-off force. If the clamping web104 b is designed to be less thick in a radial direction, it takes theform of a clamping bridge 142 b, which is connected only at the frontand at the rear to the body of the base body 26 b and which is otherwiselaterally set free by means of the apertures. The clamping bridge 142 bis formed parallel to the clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′. The materialthickness of the clamping bridge 142 b is in the range of that of theclamping walls 30 b, 30 b′.

The clamping bridge 142 b is arranged axially at the height of theclamping walls 30 b, 30 b′. The clamping bridge 142 b delimits the firstpartial receptacle region 36 b of the interface receptacle 20 b to athird side. The clamping bridge 142 b of the clamping unit 28 b extendsaxially in an insertion direction 102 b of the interface 24 b beyond thenarrowing 42 b of the first partial receptacle region 36 b. The overmold32 b directly encloses at least a substantial part of the clampingbridge 142 b in at least one plane 34 b. The overmold 32 b encloses theclamping bridge 142 b in a radial direction on a side averted from theinterface receptacle 20 b.

A clamping force imparted by the clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′ and theclamping bridge 142 b is basically dependent on the spindle constructionor on the geometry of a spindle 110 b and the dimensions of the spindle110 b. Clamping occurs not by means of punctiform contact but by meansof areal contact of the parts on three or four sides. Three sides areequipped with flexible clamping elements, whereas the fourth side isdesigned without flexibility. Clamping by means of the clamping bridge142 b is thus generated in parallel with the lateral clamping by meansof the clamping walls 30 b, 30 b′. The desired clamping force of theclamping unit 28 b lies in the range of that of the first embodiment.

It would basically also be conceivable for the free spaces around theinner geometry not to be filled with overmold 32 b. This could inparticular constitute a single-component solution, for example by virtueof the brush attachment 10 b being composed only of a hard component,and technical geometries, such as in particular the clamping walls 30 b,30 b′ and the clamping bridge 142 b, not being overmolded, and thusbeing free-standing. An inexpensive brush attachment 10 b could becreated in this way. Furthermore, a further facility for ventilationduring the insertion of the spindle 110 b can be created.

Reference will be made below to FIGS. 53 to 56 , and FIGS. 57 to 59 ,which show different views of the toothbrush handpiece 12 b and detailsof the toothbrush handpiece and of its parts, wherein a housing 46 b anda lid 113 b are omitted from the figures in each case. Owing to thedifferent views, some elements are not illustrated in all of thefigures, and are correspondingly not denoted by reference designationsin all of the figures.

Furthermore, the toothbrush handpiece 12 b has a fix frame unit 52 barranged in the housing 46 b and has an additional frame unit 144 b of acharging coil 54 b. In an assembled state, the frame unit 52 b withinstalled frame unit 144 b of the charging coil 54 b has been pushedinto the housing 46 b. The frame unit 52 b is implemented as a singlepiece, whereas the frame unit 144 b of the charging coil 54 b isinstalled thereon. In an assembled state, the frame unit 52 b withinstalled frame unit 144 b of the charging coil 54 b extends axiallyover a major part of the housing 46 b. The frame unit 52 b and frameunit 144 b of the charging coil 54 b are formed by a plastics frame. Theframe unit 52 b and frame unit 144 b of the charging coil 54 b arecomposed of plastic, preferably a polypropylene. Some other embodimentof the frame unit 52 b and/or frame unit 144 b of the charging coil 54 bthat appears expedient to a person skilled in the art would howeverbasically also be conceivable. The frame unit 52 b with installed frameunit 144 b of the charging coil 54 b furthermore has various geometries,arranged adjacently in a line, for receiving different components of theinternal parts of the toothbrush handpiece 12 b. Furthermore, the frameunit 52 b has apertures and slots for cables and for the purposes ofreducing weight.

Furthermore, the toothbrush handpiece 12 b has a drive unit 48 b fordriving the interface 24 b, which is received in the housing 46 b. Thedrive unit 48 b is configured for driving the spindle 110 b of theinterface 24 b. The drive unit 48 b is formed by a motor. The drive unit48 b is implemented of an oscillating armature motor. The frame unit 52b at least partially receives the drive unit 48 b. The frame unit 52 bfully receives the drive unit 48 b. The drive unit 48 b is installeddirectly in the frame unit 52 b. In particular, no separate motorassembly is provided. The drive unit 48 b has a rotor 58 b. The rotor 58b is configured for performing an oscillating movement. The rotor 58 bhas an integrally formed cage element 60 b. The cage element 60 b isconfigured for receiving at least one magnet 62 b, 62 b′ The cageelement 60 b is configured for receiving two magnets 62 b, 62 b′. Themagnets 62 b, 62 b′ are formed in each case by permanent magnets. Thecage element 60 b has in each case one receiving region for receivingthe magnets 62 b, 62b′. Furthermore, the cage element 60 b has a basebody 64 b, which comprises the at least one receiving region, andspindle projections 66 b, 68 b which are arranged to both sides of thebase body 64 b and which form a rotary spindle of the rotor 58 b. Thespindle projections 66 b, 68 b are arranged in each case on oppositesides of the base body 64 b. A first spindle projection 66 b is arrangedon a side of the base body 64 b averted from the interface 24 b. Asecond spindle projection 68 b is arranged on a side of the base body 64b facing toward the interface 24 b. The second spindle projection 68 bis coupled directly to the interface. The second spindle projection 68 bis configured for rotationally conjointly receiving the spindle 110 b ofthe interface 24 b. Here, the spindle 110 b can be received for exampleby means of an interference fit, by adhesive bonding or by welding.Furthermore, the rotor 58 b has at least one cover 70 b, 70 b′ which isconfigured for closing off the receptacle regions of the cage element 60b. The rotor 58 b has at least two covers 70 b, 70 b′ which areconfigured in each case for closing off one side of the receivingregions of the cage element 60 b and which in particular simultaneouslyalso serve for diverting the magnetic field. The receiving regions arein each case open to two opposite sides and are closed off by means ofthe covers 70 b, 70 b′ after the magnets 62 b, 26 b′ have been inserted.The covers 70 b, 70 b′ are in each case screwed onto, adhesively bondedto or screwed to the base body 64 b of the cage element 60 b, or arefastened as described above by being clamped clicked in. During anassembly process, it is preferably firstly the case that the first cover70 b is connected to the base body 64 b, the magnets 62 b, 62 b′ aresubsequently inserted, and thereafter the second cover 70 b′ isconnected to the base body 64 b. Bearings 118 b, 120 b for the bearingof the rotor 58 b are subsequently installed. The rotor 58 b is receivedby means of its bearings 118 b, 120 b in a receiving region of the frameunit 52 b. The receiving region for the rotor 58 b is open to twoopposite sides. The covers 70 b, 70 b′ are configured for covering themagnets 62 b, 62 b′ and for distributing a magnetic field of the magnets62 b, 62 b′.

Furthermore, the drive unit 48 b has a resetting unit. The resettingunit is of two-part construction. The resetting unit is configured forresetting a rotor 58 b into an initial position. The resetting unit iscoupled rotationally conjointly to a first spindle projection 66 b ofthe rotor 58 b and is supported elastically on the frame unit 52 b. Theresetting unit has a shaft wing 146 b which is installed directlyaxially on a first spindle projection 66 b of the rotor 58 b.Furthermore, the resetting unit has an elastic spring and dampingelement 148 b which is arranged between the shaft wing 146 b and theframe unit 52 b. The resetting unit is formed by the shaft wing 146 band the spring and damping element 148 b.

The shaft wing 146 b is fitted with its opening, a blind hole, on thefirst spindle projection 66 b of the rotor 58 b and coupled to thelatter. The dovetail-shaped geometry, as can also be seen in FIG. 57 ,dives rise to a rotationally conjoint connection of the shaft wing 146 bto the first spindle projection 66 b of the cage element 60 b. Theconnection is preferably implemented as an interference fit, though itis also conceivable for the connection not to be rigid and for nofurther axial securing other than the radial rotational securing to berealized, because slippage in an axial direction is prevented in theinteraction of the further components.

The shaft wing 146 b lies on the spring and damping element 148 b and isconnected to the latter. The elastic spring and damping element 148 b isconnected fixedly to the shaft wing 146 b. The spring and dampingelement 148 b lies in turn on the frame unit 52 b, such that, in theassembled state of all of the elements, the resetting unit is formed bythe interaction of the stated elements. The spring and damping element148 b is in particular fixed in a rotationally fixed manner to the frameunit 52 b. The resetting unit lies against the frame unit 52 b. Thespring and damping element 148 b is configured for generating aresetting force in the event of a deflection of the shaft wing 146 b ina circumferential direction out of a rest position. The elastic springand damping element 148 b furthermore, in an installed state, has apreload in relation to the frame unit 52 b, wherein the frame unit 52 bforms a support surface for the spring and damping element 148 b. Theshaft wing 146 b is preferably formed from a rigid hard component,whereas the spring and damping element 148 b is formed preferably from asoft component, preferably a silicone, with a Shore A hardness of 25Shore A to 75 Shore A, preferably of 35 Shore A to 65 Shore A. Thisarrangement has the effect that, when the rotor 58 b is deflected, theshaft wing 146 b likewise deflects, and thus presses the spring anddamping element 148 b onto the frame unit 52 b. When the forces for thedeflection are withdrawn, the spring and damping element 148 b pushesthe shaft wing 146 b back into the zero position again. The zeroposition is defined as a position without deflection of the drive.

The spring and damping element 148 b may also, in the case of adifferent construction, be fixed to an element other than the frame unit52 b; for example, the spring and damping element 148 b may bear againstor be fixed to a housing, which serves as a fixed point of theapplication. The shaft wing 146 b would thus be fitted onto a spindle,and the spring and damping element 148 b would bear against/be fixed tothe housing. The spring and damping element 148 b and the shaft wing 146b do not imperatively need to be connected to one another in order thatthey can perform their action. The resetting in the application ispossible by means of the fixed point given by the housing.

In any application of shaft wing 146 b and spring and damping element148 b, it must be ensured that the spindle, in particular the spindleprojection 66 b, onto which the shaft wing 146 b is mounted, is,together with the shaft wing 146 b, sufficiently rigid and thus not bentby the loading during operation.

The resetting unit thus formed is in particular configured forperforming a rotation of 2° to 10°, preferably of 3° to 7°. The elasticspring and damping element 148 b limits a rotation of the shaft wing 146b to a rotational angle of 2° to 10°, preferably of 3° to 7°.

Furthermore, the drive unit 48 b has a stator 76 b. The stator 76 bcomprises a carrier 78 b which is implemented as a single piece, ametal-sheet package 80 b which is inserted into the carrier 78 b, and acoil 82 b which engages around the metal-sheet package 80 b. The stator76 b comprises the carrier 78 b which is implemented as a single pieceand which is composed of a hard component, the metal-sheet package 80 bwhich is inserted into the carrier 78 b, the coil 82 b which engagesaround the metal-sheet package 80 b, and a lamination plate coverarranged between the coil 82 b and the metal-sheet package 80 b. Thestator 76 b is formed as a module. The carrier 78 b is formed by aplastics carrier. The carrier 78 b is formed by a substantiallyrectangular-cuboidal carrier which has, on a first side, arectangular-cuboidal recess for receiving the metal-sheet package 80 b.The metal-sheet package 80 b has a U-shaped cross section, wherein thefree ends of the metal-sheet package 80 b point in each case away fromthe carrier. The metal-sheet package 80 b is composed of a multiplicityof lamination plates packed side-by-side. The lamination plates areadhesively bonded, pressed, engaged with detent action, or connected insome other way in the carriers 78 b. Furthermore, the carrier 78 b has,on a rear side of the recesses, a guide groove for receiving the coil 82b. The coil 82 b encloses the carrier 78 b and the metal-sheet package80 b. The coil 82 b is wound around the metal-sheet package 80 b and thecarrier 78 b. The coil 82 b is oriented in a longitudinal direction. Thecoil 82 b and the metal-sheet package 80 b are designed to be free fromcontact. For isolation of the coil 82 b relative to the metal-sheetpackage 80 b on a side averted from the carrier 78 b, the stator 76 bhas an isolation plate (not shown in any more detail) which is arrangedbetween the coil 82 b and the metal-sheet package 80 b. The isolationplate is formed by a lamination plate cover. The isolation plate iscomposed of plastic. The lamination plate cover is installed byengagement with detent action, adhesive bonding or the like. Theisolation plate protects the wire of the coil 82 b from the edges of themetal-sheet package 80 b and prevents a short circuit between the coil82 b and the metal-sheet package 80 b. The carrier 78 b of the driveunit 48 b is connected directly to the frame unit 52 b. The carrier 78 bis screwed to the frame unit 52 b. In principle, however, some otherconnection that appears expedient to a person skilled in the art wouldalso be conceivable. The carrier 78 b covers the rotor 58 b of the driveunit 48 b from one side. The carrier 78 b covers a first open side ofthe receiving region of the frame unit 52 b for the rotor 58 b.Furthermore, the metal-sheet package 80 b projects partially into thereceiving region of the rotor 58 b. The metal-sheet package 80 b engagesat least partially around the rotor 58 b in an assembled state.

Furthermore, the electric toothbrush handpiece 12 b has a rotor cover 88b. The rotor cover 88 b covers the rotor 58 b of the drive unit 48 bfrom a side situated opposite the carrier 78 b. The rotor cover 88 bcovers a second open side of the receiving region of the frame unit 52 bfor the rotor 58 b. In an assembled state, the rotor 58 b is surroundeddirectly by the stator 76 b, the frame unit 52 b and the rotor cover 88b. The rotor cover 88 b is formed by a plastics part. The rotor cover 88b is fixedly connected to the frame unit 52 b. The rotor cover 88 b isconnected opposite the carrier 78 b to the frame unit 52 b. The rotorcover 88 b is screwed to the frame unit 52 b. In principle, however,some other form of the connection which appears expedient to a personskilled in the art would also be conceivable. The rotor cover 88 b isconfigured together with the frame unit 52 b for bearing and fixing therotor 58 b of the drive unit 48 b. The rotor cover 88 b and the frameunit 52 b form in each case two semicircular spindle receptacles forreceiving the rotor 58 b. The semicircular spindle receptacles areformed in each case by corresponding spindle receptacles which togetherform a complete spindle receptacle. The spindle receptacles areconfigured in each case for receiving the two spindle projections 66 b,68 b of the rotor 58 b by means of in each case one bearing 118 b, 120b. For this purpose, the bearings 118 b, 120 b are received in thespindle receptacles, which bearings 118 b, 120 b are in turn configuredfor bearing the spindle projections 66 b, 68 b of the rotor 58 brelative to the frame unit 52 b. Various embodiments of the bearings 118b, 120 b which appear expedient to a person skilled in the art areconceivable. The rotor 58 b is mounted between the frame unit 52 b andthe rotor cover 88 b. The rotor cover 88 b is furthermore configuredtogether with the frame unit 52 b for bearing and sealing off thespindle 110 b of the interface 24 b. For this purpose, the rotor cover88 b and the frame unit 52 b form in each case one semicircular spindlereceptacle for receiving a sealing ring 122 b and a bearing 124 b forthe spindle 110 b. The spindle 110 b is mounted between the rotor cover88 b and the frame unit 52 b. Various embodiments of the bearing 124 bwhich appear expedient to a person skilled in the art are conceivable.For example, it would be conceivable for the bearing 124 b to be formedin each case by a plain bearing composed of plastic or of the materialiglidur. The rotor cover 88 b therefore extends axially from the driveunit 48 b to a point at which the spindle of the interface 24 b emergesfrom the housing 46 b.

Furthermore, the electric toothbrush handpiece 12 b has a covering cap126 b. The covering cap 126 b is configured for being pushed over aspindle-side end of the rotor cover 88 b and of the frame unit 52 b. Inan assembled state, the covering cap 126 b engages around in each casethe spindle-side end of the rotor cover 88 b and of the frame unit 52 b.The covering cap 126 b serves for further connection and centering ofthe rotor cover 88 b and of the frame unit 52 b relative to one another.Furthermore, the covering cap 126 b serves for spindle guidance of thespindle 110 b of the interface 24 b. For this purpose, the spindle 110 bis guided through the covering cap 126 b. Furthermore, the covering cap126 b serves for sealing off a housing interior with respect to theinterface 24 b. The covering cap 126 b serves for sealing between thehousing 46 b and the frame unit 52 b. For this purpose, the covering cap126 b comprises a sealing ring 128 b.

Furthermore, the resetting unit, composed of shaft wing 146 b and springand damping element 148 b, serves as stop element. The stop element isconfigured for limiting a rotation of the rotor 58 b of the drive unit48 b out of an initial position. The stop element forms in each case oneend stop of the rotor 58 b in the case of an oscillating drive movement.

Altogether, this present stop element may also be combined with furtherstop elements, such as are provided for example in conjunction with thefirst embodiment of the invention.

Furthermore, the toothbrush handpiece 12 b has an energy store 50 b.1;50.2 which is received in the housing 46 b and which serves forsupplying energy to the drive unit 48 b. In the present embodiment, theframe unit 52 b receives the energy store 50 b.1; 50.2 at one end in alongitudinal direction. The energy store 50 b.1; 50.2 is arranged on aside of the drive unit 48 b averted from the interface 24 b. The energystore 50 b.1; 50.2 is guided—in this case not clamped—radially bylateral holding arms of the frame unit 52 b. Furthermore, a longitudinaldisplacement of the energy store 50 b.1; 50.2 is prevented by means ofthe assembly of the frame unit 144 b of the charging coil 54 b ininteraction with the charging coil 54 b and the compensation element. Inthe assembled state, the energy store 50 b.1; 50.2 is arrangedsubstantially coaxially with respect to the drive unit 48 b. The energystore 50 b.1; 50.2 is embodied as an accumulator, in particular a NiMhaccumulator and/or a Li-ion accumulator. In principle, however, adifferent embodiment of the energy store 50 b.1; 50.2 that appears to beexpedient to a person skilled in the art, for example as a battery,would also be conceivable.

The electric toothbrush handpiece 12 b furthermore has a charging coil54 b for charging of the energy store 50 b.1; 50.2. Charging of theenergy store 50 b.1; 50.2 directly by means of a plug-in connectionwould however basically also be conceivable. The charging coil 54 b isimplemented of an induction coil. The charging coil 54 b is received inthe fix frame unit 144 b of the charging coil 54 b and is fixed by meansthereof to the frame unit 52 b. The frame unit 144 b of the chargingcoil 54 b has a receiving region for receiving the charging coil 54 b ina positionally fixed manner. The charging coil 54 b is held from theoutside by the frame unit 144 b of the charging coil 54 b and is held inlongitudinal position by means of the compensation element. The positionof the charging coil 54 b is thus secured both radially and axially. Thecharging coil 54 b is installed in particular along the longitudinalaxis. The charging coil 54 b is arranged on a side of the energy store50 b.1; 50.2 which is averted from the drive unit 48 b. The chargingcoil 54 b is arranged substantially coaxially with respect to the energystore 50 b.1; 50.2 and the drive unit 48 b. Furthermore, in an assembledstate; the lid 113 b engages into the charging coil 54 b in order tomake it possible for a ferrite core of a charging unit to be positionedin the coil. The charging coil 54 b has in particular an inner diameterof 6 mm to 14 mm, preferably of 8 mm to 15 mm, and an outer diameter of12 mm to 19 mm, preferably of 14 mm to 17 mm. Furthermore, the chargingcoil 54 b has in particular a height of 4 mm to 15 mm, preferably of 5mm to 10 mm.

Furthermore, the electric toothbrush handpiece 12 b has a circuit board56 b. The circuit board 56 b is configured for controlling the driveunit 48 b. The circuit board 56 b is configured for activating the driveunit 48 b in sinusoidal fashion during operation. For this purpose, thecircuit board 56 b is coupled to the energy store 50 b.1; 50.2. Theenergy store 50 b.1; 50.2 is connected by means of lines via the circuitboard 56 b, on which the controller is integrated, to the drive unit 48b itself. The energy store 50 b.1; 50.2 is connected to the coil 82 bwhich is wound around the metal-sheet package 80 b, wherein the coil 82b lies not directly on the metal-sheet package 80 b but lies at one sideon the carrier 78 b and at the other side on the lamination plate cover.In the coil 82 b, an alternating current is generated which has theeffect that an alternating polarity forms at the free ends of themetal-sheet package 80 b. The magnets 62 b, 62 b′ are arranged fixedlyin the rotor 58 b and are installed by means of the covers 70 b, 70 b′,which optimize the field formed by the magnets 62 b, 62 b′. The rotor 58b is mounted rotatably within the metal-sheet package 80 b. Owing to thepolarization of the free ends of the metal-sheet package 80 b, the rotor58 b with the magnets 62 b, 26 b′ seeks to realign in the field, givingrise to a movement. If the polarity of the ends of the metal-sheetpackage 80 b is reversed, then the rotor 58 b seeks to rotate in theother direction. This gives rise to an oscillating back-and-forthmovement of the rotor 58 b. The resetting unit on the rotary spindleensures the return of the rotor 58 b into a zero position, and itfurthermore ensures softer movement transitions when the polaritychanges. Overall, the resetting unit is required in order that themovements are possible in the first place, because the forces resultingfrom the polarization would otherwise be so great that no oscillationwould be possible.

What the circuit board 56 b controls are the energy pulses fed to thedrive unit 48 b. These variables are specifically adapted to the presentdrive or to the product. In order that smooth running of the drive unit48 b is achieved, the drive unit 48 b is activated in sinusoidal fashionand not with pulses and intervals.

Furthermore, the circuit board 56 b is coupled to the charging coil 54b. The circuit board 56 b is configured for controlling a chargingprocess of the energy store 50 b.1; 50.2. Furthermore, the circuit board56 b has an actuating element 136 b which can be actuated through a basebody 112 b of the housing 46 b and which serves for an activation and/ordeactivation of the toothbrush handpiece 12 b. The actuating element 136b is configured for being actuated through an overmold 114 b of thehousing 46 b. Also provided on the circuit board 56 b are furtherelements such as, in particular, lines, resistors, LEDs and/or a controlunit. The circuit board 56 b is furthermore partially received inpositively locking fashion by the frame unit 52 b and extends over amajor part of the axial extent of the frame unit 52 b. The circuit board56 b extends at least over the energy store 50 b.1; 50.2 and the driveunit 48 b of the toothbrush handpiece 12 b. To receive the circuit board56 b in positively locking fashion, the frame unit 52 b has multiplehook-like positive-locking elements 138 b, which are configured forpartially engaging over the circuit board 56 b in an assembled state.For an installation process, the circuit board 56 b has, on an outeredge, recesses 140 b which correspond to the positive-locking elements138 b and via which the circuit board 56 b can, for installationthereof, be moved past the positive-locking elements 138 b into an endposition. During an installation process, the circuit board 56 b ispreferably mounted onto the frame unit 52 b in a manner offset withrespect to a final position, wherein the circuit board 56 b can beguided past the positive-locking elements 138 b by means of the recesses140 b. The circuit board 56 b is subsequently pushed under thepositive-locking elements 138 b and thereby fixed. For this purpose, thecircuit board 56 b has separate small cutouts (not visible in any moredetail) for the detent engagement in the end position. Thepositive-locking elements 138 b additionally serve as hold-down means,which hold the circuit board 56 b in non-positively locking fashion. Ata lower end of the circuit board 56 b, the frame unit 52 b furthermorehas a stop with a ramp, which serves for exact positioning of thecircuit board 56 b.

Tolerances between the frame unit 52 b and its components and thehousing 46 b must be compensated for in order that firstly the actuatingelement 136 b, in the assembled state, is in the correct position forthe actuation through the housing 46 b, but secondly also the chargingcoil 54 b is situated optimally in order that the inductive chargingprocess attains an optimum efficiency. Furthermore, tolerances must becompensated in order that the frame unit 52 b and the frame unit 144 bof the charging coil 54 b are seated firmly, in particular without play,in the housing 46 b and no noises are generated during operation. Thelength compensation for the compensation of tolerances may be realizedby means of the compensation element, composed for example of acompressible plastic, as is fitted for example between charging coil 54b and energy store 50 b.1, 50.2. It would however furthermore also bepossible for elastic elements to be integrated on the frame unit 52 b inorder to ensure the length compensation. By way of example, flexibleelements which are placed under stress, that is to say bent, when a lid113 b is installed.

Altogether, the frame unit 52 b with installed frame unit 144 b of thecharging coil 54 b can be divided into multiple zones. The frame unit144 b of the charging coil 54 b has a coil zone. The coil zone forms thefirst zone as viewed from below, and serves for directly receiving, andfor the direct installation of, the charging coil 54 b. The frame unit52 b furthermore has an accumulator zone. The accumulator zone directlyadjoins the coil zone and is configured for receiving the energy store50 b.1; 50.2. The frame unit 52 b furthermore has a spring zone. Thespring zone directly adjoins the accumulator zone on a side averted fromthe coil zone, and is configured for receiving the resetting unit. Theframe unit 52 b furthermore has an oscillating armature zone. Theoscillating armature zone directly adjoins the spring zone on a sideaverted from the coil zone, and is configured for receiving the driveunit 48 b. The frame unit 52 b is of continuously open form in theregion of the oscillating armature zone. The frame unit 52 b furthermorehas a spindle zone. The spindle zone directly adjoins the oscillatingarmature zone on a side averted from the coil zone, and is configuredfor receiving the interface 24 b or the spindle 110 b of the interface24 b. The frame unit 52 b furthermore has a print zone. The print zoneis arranged on a front side of the frame unit and is configured forreceiving the circuit board 56 b.

Fitting of items into the frame unit 52 b is performed substantially viaa rear side. Only the circuit board 56 b and the stator 76 b areinstalled from the front. Furthermore, the charging coil 54 b and aconnecting cap are installed along the longitudinal axis. The drive unit48 b and the energy store 50 b.1; 50.2 are installed from a rear side ofthe frame unit 52 b.

During a process of assembly of the electric toothbrush handpiece 12 b,it is preferably the case that, in a first step, all of the internalparts are installed via the frame unit 52 b and the frame unit 144 b ofthe charging coil 54 b and are subsequently, in a second step, pressedinto the housing 46 b. Here, the frame unit 52 b with installed frameunit 144 b of the charging coil 54 b is clamped in the housing 46 b. Forthis purpose, the frame unit 52 b has detent lugs which engage intodetent recesses of the housing 46 b. Subsequently, in a third step, thelid 113 b is fixed to the housing 46 b and thus fixes and closes off theinternal parts. The lid 113 b may be both screwed and for example lockedby means of a bayonet fastener to the housing 46 b.

FIGS. 57 to 59 show further details relating to the shaft wing 146 b andrelating to the spring and damping element 148 b.

The shaft wing 146 b is of cross-shaped form in plan view. In thecenter, there is formed a cylindrical body which, in an axial direction,is equipped with a blind hole 150 b with dovetail-shaped cross section.This geometry later serves for receiving the spindle projection 66 b ofthe rotor 58 b. Wings 152 b, 152 b″ are also formed laterally and so asto be situated (symmetrically) opposite one another by 180° in relationto the spindle. The wings 152 b, 152 b′ are equipped with a passage hole154 b, 154 bc. Opposite the blind hole 150 b in an axial direction,there is formed a projection 156 b which, in the installed state,prevents the axial displacement within the assembly. To secure the shaftwing 146 b on the spindle projection 66 b of the rotor 58 b, asnap-action lug is formed on the rotor 58 b and a snap-action ring 158 bis formed on the shaft wing 146 b.

The projection 156 b has a diameter of 1.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably of 2.5mm to 3.5 mm. The length of the projection 156 b amounts to 1.5 mm to 5mm, preferably 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm. The blind hole 150 b has a depth of 7mm to 14 mm, preferably of 9 mm to 12 mm. The width of the shaft wing146 b, measured across the wings 152 b, 152 b′, amounts to between 14 mmand 22 mm, preferably between 17 mm and 19 mm. The outer diameter of thecylindrical body amounts to between 7 mm and 11 mm, preferably between 8mm and 10 mm.

The spring and damping element 148 b is, in cross section, formed as asemicircular element with lateral flanges 160 b, 160 b′. On itsunderside, the element has, on the flanges 160 b, 160 b′, twoprojections which, in the assembled state, lie on the frame unit 52 b.The elasticity or a degree of deformability is given by way ofprojections being realized. Projections 162 b, 162 b′ are likewiseformed on the top side, which projections are formed on the flanges 160b, 160 b′ adjacent to the geometry for receiving the shaft wing 146 b.These projections 162 b, 162 b′ are installed into the passage holes 154b, 154 b′ of the shaft wing 146 b and hold the two parts together. Theprojections 162 b, 162 b′ have undercuts that realize this. The innergeometry of the spring and damping element 148 b is in particularadapted to the outer geometry of the shaft wing 146 b. The geometry isselected such that the required partial rotation of the shaft wing 146 bis possible.

The spring and damping element 148 b has a length (direction of thedrive spindle in the assembled state) of 4 mm to 8 mm, preferably 5 to6.5 mm. The width perpendicular thereto amounts to between 14 mm and 22mm, preferably between 17 mm and 19 mm. The height—from the rounding tothe projection—amounts to between 6 mm and 11 mm, preferably between 7.5mm and 9.5 mm. The projections on the bottom side have a height of 1 mmto 3 mm, preferably of 1.2 mm to 1.8 mm. The projections 162 b, 162 b′on the top side have a height of 1.5 mm to 4 mm, preferably of 2 mm to3.5 mm. The inner diameter on the spring and damping element 148 bamounts to between 7 mm and 11 mm, preferably between 8 mm and 10 mm.

The inner diameter on the spring and damping element 148 b and the outerdiameter of the cylindrical part of the shaft wing 146 b are coordinatedwith one another such that the partial rotation is possible withoutgenerating friction losses.

In the assembled state in FIG. 57 , it can be seen that the spring anddamping element 148 b and the shaft wing 146 b are installed one insidethe other and that the spring and damping element 148 b lies on theframe unit 52 b and generates a preload (illustrated as an overlap). Thesupport surface formed on the frame unit 52 b can be seen in thesectional illustration.

The descriptions given for specific figures are of course alsotransferable to other figures which show identical or similarconfigurations and in which the configurations are not described in thesame detail.

1. An electric toothbrush handpiece having at least one interface forcoupling to a brush attachment, having at least one housing, having atleast one drive unit for driving the interface, which is received in thehousing, and having at least one energy store for supplying energy tothe drive unit, characterized by at least one fix frame unit which isarranged in the housing and which is implemented as a single piece andwhich at least partially receives the drive unit and the energy store,wherein the frame unit forms multiple receptacle regions at least forthe drive unit and the energy store, which receptacle regions arepositioned in a defined manner relative to one another in particularboth in an assembled state and in an unassembled state of the frameunit, wherein the frame unit extends axially over the entire drive unitand the entire energy store.
 2. The electric toothbrush handpiece asclaimed in claim 1, characterized by at least one charging coil forcharging the energy store which at least one charging coil is receivedin the fix frame unit.
 3. The electric toothbrush handpiece as claimedin claim 2, characterized by a compressible length compensation elementfor the length compensation for the compensation of tolerances, which isfitted between charging coil and frame unit.
 4. The electric toothbrushhandpiece as claimed in claim 2, characterized by a separate frame unitof the charging coil, which is installed on the frame unit, wherein theframe unit of the charging coil carries within it the charging coil andalso a compensation element, which is pressed by the charging coilagainst the energy store.
 5. The electric toothbrush handpiece asclaimed in claim 2, characterized in that the separate frame unit of thecharging coil is installed on the frame unit by a plugging-on process.6. The electric toothbrush handpiece as claimed in claim 1,characterized by a circuit board for control of the drive unit, whichcircuit board is at least partially received in positively lockingfashion by the frame unit and extends at least over a large part of anaxial extent of the frame unit.
 7. The electric toothbrush handpiece asclaimed in claim 6, characterized in that, to receive the circuit boardin positively locking fashion, the frame unit has at least twohook-shaped positive-locking elements, which are configured forpartially engaging over the circuit board in an installed state.
 8. Theelectric toothbrush handpiece as claimed in claim 7, characterized inthat, for an installation process, the circuit board particularly has,on an outer edge, recesses which correspond to the positive-lockingelements and via which the circuit board can, for installation thereof,be moved past the positive-locking elements into an end position.
 9. Theelectric toothbrush handpiece as claimed in claim 1, characterized inthat the energy store is clamped radially by lateral holding arms of theframe unit.
 10. The electric toothbrush handpiece as claimed in claim 1,characterized by at least one rotor cover which is connected fixedly tothe frame unit and which, together with the frame unit, is configuredfor a support and/or fixing of a rotor of the drive unit.
 11. Theelectric toothbrush handpiece as claimed in claim 10, characterized inthat the rotor cover is screwed to the frame unit.
 12. The electrictoothbrush handpiece as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that therotor is mounted between the frame unit and the rotor cover.
 13. Theelectric toothbrush handpiece as claimed in claim 10, characterized by acovering cap which is configured for being pushed over a spindle-sideend of the rotor cover and of the frame unit, wherein, in an assembledstate, the covering cap engages around in each case the spindle-side endof the rotor cover and of the frame unit.
 14. The electric toothbrushhandpiece as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that the interfacecomprises a spindle, wherein the covering cap serves for spindleguidance of the spindle of the interface, wherein, for this purpose, thespindle is guided through the covering cap.
 15. The electric toothbrushhandpiece as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that the covering capserves for sealing off a housing interior with respect to the interface.16. A method for producing the electric toothbrush handpiece as claimedin claim
 1. 17. The method as claimed in claim 16, characterized inthat, during a process of assembly of the electric toothbrush handpiece,in a first step, all of the internal parts are installed via the frameunit and are subsequently, in a second step, pressed into the housing.18. An electric toothbrush having an electric toothbrush handpiece asclaimed in claim 1 and having a brush attachment.